Bihar Heatwave: Schools Closed in Patna Until June 19 Amid Soaring Temperatures

Mansha Singh

Patna: Patna and much of Bihar are enduring a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 46 degrees Celsius in several areas. On Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) declared severe heatwave conditions at 14 locations, with three additional areas also under heatwave alerts. Gaya, Arwal, Rohtas, Bhojpur, and Buxar recorded some of the highest temperatures.

In response to the extreme heat, Patna’s District Magistrate, Shirsat Kapil Ashok, has ordered the closure of schools until June 19. This extension follows an earlier directive from Dr. S. Siddharth, Principal Secretary of the Education Department, which had initially mandated school closures across Bihar until June 17. Schools were set to reopen on June 18, but the DM’s order has now prolonged the closure by an additional two days for students up to class 8.

Teachers and staff are still required to attend school, with the holiday applying only to students. This decision aims to protect children from the adverse effects of the heatwave.

The IMD has advised residents to take precautions, recommending that people avoid going outside in the afternoon unless absolutely necessary. This advisory underscores the severity of the current weather conditions and the need for public vigilance.

As Bihar continues to battle the heat, the authorities remain on high alert, prioritising the health and safety of its residents.