Cold wave shuts all UP schools until Jan 1, CM Adityanath issues safety directive

• All UP schools closed till Jan 1, 2026 due to extreme cold and dense fog
• CM Adityanath orders relief measures, blanket distribution, and bonfires statewide.
• Online classes advised; district magistrates can declare local holidays.

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The government of Uttar Pradesh has ordered the closure of all schools in the state until January 1, 2026, citing extreme cold and persistent dense fog enveloping the region. The directive, applying to all institutions up to Class 12 regardless of board affiliation, underscores the severity of the ongoing cold wave in north India.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, emphasising child welfare as paramount, stated that any lapse in student safety would not be tolerated. The decision, reported by PTI, mandates the shutdown of CBSE, ICSE and state board schools alike.

The move follows an India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning forecasting dense fog across Uttar Pradesh until at least December 31. Temperatures are expected to hover between highs of around 15 degrees Celsius and lows of approximately 10 degrees Celsius, creating hazardous conditions for travel and outdoor activity.

In a comprehensive review of winter preparedness, Chief Minister Adityanath directed senior officials to maintain active ground-level monitoring. He issued specific instructions for district authorities to ensure adequate arrangements, including the provision of blankets and bonfires in public spaces and the effective operation of night shelters.

“No one should be compelled to sleep in the open during the freezing weather,” the Chief Minister asserted, confirming that sufficient funds have been released to all districts for relief measures. After inspecting shelters in Gorakhpur, he told reporters that district magistrates have been empowered to declare local holidays and that online classes should be conducted where necessary.

Reiterating a commitment to protecting the vulnerable, Adityanath mandated that all night shelters must provide essential facilities such as bedding, blankets and proper sanitation. He personally visited shelters near TP Nagar Pass and Dharmshala Bazaar, distributing blankets and food while interacting with residents.

The state’s relief efforts appear to be in full swing. In Gorakhpur city alone, authorities have established 480 bonfire sites and distributed blankets and woollens to more than 22,000 needy individuals, according to the Chief Minister’s account.

Beyond government action, Adityanath made a public appeal, urging citizens who are able to assist those in need during the harsh spell. He also advised people to avoid unnecessary travel in foggy conditions and to maintain adequate hydration even in the cold.