Bihar schools closed due to severe cold wave: Check latest updates on winter holidays & district orders

Schools Closed in Bihar

In response to a severe cold wave gripping the state, district administrations across Bihar have ordered the closure of schools for junior classes to protect children’s health. The Patna District Magistrate has mandated the shutdown of all government and private schools up to Class 8, alongside Anganwadi centres, until December 26, 2025.

Citing plummeting temperatures and harsh winter conditions, the Patna DM’s order aims to mitigate health risks for young students. For senior students in Classes 9 to 12, a strict timing restriction is in place: no educational activities are permitted before 10:00 AM or after 3:00 PM. This measure ensures older students can attend crucial classes while avoiding exposure to the coldest parts of the day.

The decision comes after persistent demands from parents concerned about their children commuting and studying in intense cold. School authorities have been directed to prioritize student safety and comply fully with the order.

The cold wave has prompted similar pre-emptive actions in multiple districts, each with varying timelines:

Lakhisarai: District Magistrate Mithilesh Mishra has ordered the closure of all schools (government and private) up to Class 8, pre-schools, and Anganwadi centres until January 4, 2026. The order, issued under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code, 2023, is effective from December 24, 2025. Classes for students in Grade 9 and above will continue with necessary precautions.

Sitamarhi: DM Richie Pandey has suspended educational activities for all classes up to 12 in private and government schools, including coaching institutes, until December 24. An exemption has been granted for special classes or examinations related to pre-board and board preparations.

Chhapra: Instructions have been issued to close all schools up to Class 10 until December 23.

Araria & Gayaji: District Magistrates Vinod Duhan (Araria) and the Gayaji administration have ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 5, along with Anganwadi centres, until December 24 due to the cold wave and falling temperatures.

District officials, including Education Officers, Block Development Officers, Circle Officers, and police station heads, have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these orders. The situation is being monitored continuously, and further decisions will be based on weather developments and public health advisories.

Parents are advised to keep children warm and indoors as much as possible. Schools will communicate updates regarding the resumption of normal schedules or any extensions of the closure period. Senior students (Classes 9-12) in affected districts must note the revised timings and avoid school premises outside the stipulated hours.

The district administrations emphasize that these steps are purely precautionary, driven by concern for student welfare during this intense cold spell. Residents should rely only on official government circulars and school notices for authentic updates.

Next Review: The Patna administration will reassess the situation post-December 26, while other districts will follow their announced timelines.