J&K orders closure of all schools in Jammu region until Aug 30 due to heavy rainfall

The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced the closure of all schools in the Jammu region until Aug 30 due to heavy rainfall and flooding, prioritizing the safety of students, teachers, and school staff.

The schools remained closed for a third consecutive day on Aug 28 as adverse weather continued to affect the region.

The order, issued by Director of School Education Dr Naseem Javaid Chowdhary, directed school heads to evaluate the feasibility of conducting online classes for students of Classes 9 to 12 wherever adequate infrastructure and internet connectivity exist.

After record rainfall caused widespread damage over the past two days, the death toll in rain-related incidents has reached 45, with most victims from a landslide along the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route.

Relief operations accelerated on Aug 27 as the intensity of showers decreased.

“Keeping the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff as the highest priority, it is hereby ordered that all government and private schools across Jammu division shall remain closed up to 30th August,” Chowdhary said in the order.

He added that heads of institutions are advised to explore the possibility of online classes for Classes 9 to 12 wherever infrastructure and connectivity allow.

“It is reiterated that all Chief Education Officers and Heads of Institutions must strictly adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures for reopening schools before resuming physical classes. All school authorities must ensure thorough cleaning, sanitation, and safety inspections of school premises prior to reopening,” he said.

Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored, and further instructions will be issued based on evolving weather and ground conditions.

The closures come in response to continuous heavy rainfall that has disrupted daily life and the functioning of schools.

Severe waterlogging and mud accumulation in school premises are making them unfit for physical classes.

“Flooding in low-lying areas is restricting access to schools. There is a heightened risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in hilly and mountainous regions, posing serious threats to students and staff,” Chowdhary said.

The director also noted damage to road infrastructure, including blocked and eroded roads, making travel to schools unsafe.