Patna: The Patna district administration has ordered the suspension of academic activities for students up to Class VIII in all government and private schools, including pre-schools, until June 27, citing the continuing spell of heatwave and humid weather conditions across the district.
The order was issued by District Magistrate Kundan Kumar under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
In the order issued on Sunday, the District Magistrate said prevailing high temperatures and heatwave conditions continued to pose a risk to the health and safety of children.
“It has been made to appear to me that due to prevalent high temperature in the district, health and life of children are at risk. The prevalent heatwave condition still persists,” the order stated.
Extension Of Earlier Restrictions
The latest directive extends restrictions already imposed by the district administration earlier this month.
On June 15, the administration had ordered the suspension of classes up to Class V until June 20 due to rising temperatures and oppressive weather conditions.
With the heatwave continuing and humidity levels remaining high, the administration has now expanded the order to cover students up to Class VIII.
School authorities have been directed to reschedule academic activities in accordance with the new order.
Schools Asked To Modify Timings
The district administration has instructed all educational institutions to ensure compliance with the directive and make suitable adjustments to their academic schedules.
The order applies to both government and private schools operating within Patna district.
Authorities said the measure was being taken as a precautionary step to protect young children, who are considered particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, exhaustion and heatstroke.
अत्यधिक गर्मी के कारण बच्चों के स्वास्थ्य को ध्यान में रखते हुए विद्यालयों के संचालन के बारे में जिलाधिकारी, पटना का आदेश@samrat4bjp@BiharEducation_@ias_kundan pic.twitter.com/wXkHjMNeiD
— District Administration Patna (@dm_patna) June 21, 2026
IMD Forecast Suggests Weather Change Ahead
The closure comes amid a period of unstable weather across Bihar. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heatwave conditions may persist in parts of central and south Bihar over the next few days, even as the southwest monsoon advances further into the state. Districts including Patna have been experiencing maximum temperatures above normal levels, accompanied by high humidity.
However, meteorologists expect a gradual improvement in conditions later this week as monsoon activity strengthens. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and spells of heavy rainfall in several districts between 22 and 27 June, which could bring relief from the ongoing heat. Officials have urged parents and guardians to ensure children remain adequately hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours.
