Rajasthan Declares School Holidays Amid Severe Cold Wave and Rain

As Rajasthan faces an unrelenting cold wave coupled with sporadic rainfall, the state’s daily life has been significantly disrupted. With temperatures plummeting and weather conditions worsening, district administrations are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students. To combat the adverse effects of the weather, several districts have announced school closures and adjusted schedules.

The Education Department has granted district collectors the authority to implement school holidays based on the local severity of the weather. Consequently, districts like Kota and Bundi have extended school holidays for younger students while modifying school timings for senior classes.

Extended School Holidays in Kota

In Kota, the cold wave has forced authorities to reconsider school schedules. Initially, schools were closed until January 15, 2025, but the District Collector has now extended the holiday to January 18, 2025.

Who is affected?

• • Schools for Class 1 to Class 5 will remain closed for both government and private institutions.
  • Students in Classes 6 to 12 will resume classes but with modified timings from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, ensuring that children avoid the colder morning hours.

This decision reflects the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the health of students while ensuring minimal disruption to their academic progress.

Bundi Follows Suit with School Closures

In Bundi, District Collector Akshay Godara has taken similar steps, declaring holidays for younger students.

Details of the order:

• • Classes 1 to 5 in both government and private schools will remain closed until January 18, 2025.
  • Regular activities for teachers, administrative staff, and ongoing examinations will continue without any changes to their schedules.
  • The district administration has warned that strict action will be taken against schools that fail to comply with the order.

The move highlights the administration’s understanding of the challenges faced by students and parents during this cold spell.

Statewide Weather Advisory

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts across several districts in Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Kota, and Bundi, warning of continued cold wave conditions and sporadic rainfall. These conditions are expected to persist for the next few days, exacerbating the difficulties faced by residents.

The combination of cold winds and rain has not only affected the school schedules but also disrupted everyday life. Residents have been advised to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

Reasons Behind the School Closures

1. Safety Concerns: With temperatures dipping significantly and the risk of illness rising, younger children are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.
2. Infrastructural Challenges: Many schools, especially in rural areas, lack adequate heating facilities, making it difficult to conduct classes comfortably during such severe weather.
3. Parental Concerns: Parents have expressed relief over the extended holidays, as it ensures the safety of their children amid worsening weather conditions.

Guidelines for Parents and Schools

While schools have been closed for younger children, parents and schools are urged to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Ensure that children dress warmly in multiple layers, especially if they attend higher classes with adjusted schedules.
• Regularly check announcements from local authorities or schools for updates on reopening dates and further adjustments.
• Encourage indoor activities for children to keep them engaged and safe during this period.

Weather’s Impact on Rajasthan

The ongoing cold wave has highlighted the need for enhanced infrastructural readiness in schools across the state. Many districts, including Jaipur, Alwar, and Jodhpur, have reported freezing temperatures, with some areas experiencing cold winds and sporadic showers. The harsh weather has disrupted transportation, reduced foot traffic in markets, and even affected public services.

Key Takeaways

1. Extended Holidays: Kota and Bundi have extended holidays for Classes 1 to 5 until January 18, 2025.
2. Adjusted Timings: Students from Class 6 to 12 in Kota will attend classes from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
3. Compliance Warnings: Authorities have issued strict directives to schools to comply with the holiday orders, failing which they may face penalties.
4. Statewide Precautions: The IMD’s advisory highlights the need for continued vigilance as cold wave conditions persist.

Parents are encouraged to stay updated on announcements and take necessary precautions to protect their children during this severe weather. The district administrations’ decisions to extend holidays and modify schedules reflect their priority to ensure the health and safety of students during this challenging time.

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