Cold Wave, Fog And Pollution Force School Closures Across States |

Updated: December 31, 2025 15:53

Image Source : CNBC TV18

Severe cold wave conditions, dense fog, and rising pollution levels have triggered widespread school closures across northern and eastern India. States including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Assam have announced shutdowns or extended winter vacations to safeguard students’ health and safety amid worsening weather conditions.

As 2025 draws to a close, India is witnessing one of its harshest winter spells in recent years. Dense fog, plummeting temperatures, and deteriorating air quality have disrupted daily life, prompting state administrations to order school closures. Authorities emphasize that the measures are necessary to protect children from extreme cold and hazardous pollution levels.

Key highlights from the announcement include

Delhi schools have been shut for younger classes, with hybrid or online learning options for senior students due to severe air pollution and cold.
Uttar Pradesh has ordered all schools up to Class 12 to remain closed until January 1, 2026, citing dense fog and freezing temperatures.
In Bihar, schools are adjusting timings to warmer hours, with Patna schools operating between 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM.
Jharkhand and Punjab have extended winter vacations, with officials monitoring conditions for possible further extensions.
Assam’s Kamrup Metropolitan district has ordered all government and provincialised schools to remain closed from December 31, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued dense fog alerts for Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab, warning of visibility dropping to 50 meters in some regions.
Rail and road traffic have also been disrupted, with delays and cancellations reported due to poor visibility.
Authorities are mobilizing relief measures, including shelters and distribution of warm clothing, to protect vulnerable populations.
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to cold and pollution could increase respiratory illnesses among children.
State governments have assured parents that closures are temporary and will be reviewed based on weather updates.

The closures highlight the combined impact of climate extremes and pollution on public health and education. With millions of students affected, administrations are balancing academic schedules with safety concerns, underscoring the urgency of addressing environmental challenges in India’s urban and rural regions.

Sources: India Today, CNBC TV18, Outlook India, NDTV, MSN, Jagran Josh

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