Patna: With temperatures continuing to rise and heatwave conditions intensifying across the district, the Patna administration has ordered the closure of all educational activities for students up to Class 8 in government and private schools until June 30.
The directive, issued by District Magistrate (DM) Kundan Kumar, also applies to pre-schools and Anganwadi centres. During the period, no classroom teaching or other educational activities for students up to Class 8 will be conducted.
Order Issued to Safeguard Children’s Health
According to the district administration, prolonged exposure to extreme afternoon heat poses a serious health risk to young children, increasing the possibility of heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke.
Invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the District Magistrate issued the order as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
School managements have been instructed to postpone and reschedule any examinations, tests or academic activities that were scheduled during the closure period.
Schools Directed to Ensure Strict Compliance
The administration has made it mandatory for all government and private educational institutions to comply with the order without exception. Schools have been advised not to conduct any academic activities for students covered under the directive until the restriction is lifted.
Senior Officials Assigned to Monitor Implementation
To ensure effective implementation, the district administration has assigned enforcement responsibilities to the District Education Officer (DEO), District Programme Officer (ICDS), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), Block Development Officers (BDOs), and local Station House Officers (SHOs).
These officials have been directed to monitor compliance within their respective jurisdictions and take necessary action wherever required.
Administration Warns Against Violations
The district administration has made it clear that any negligence in implementing the order will not be tolerated, emphasising that children’s health and safety remain the highest priority.
The temporary restriction on educational activities will remain in force until June 30, after which further decisions will be taken based on prevailing weather conditions.
