16 August 2023 School Holiday Update: Heavy Rains Cause Devastation in Uttarakhand, Himachal, Bihar

Uttarakhand, Himachal, Bihar: In the midst of continuous heavy rains, numerous regions across the country are grappling with disruptions. The normal course of life has been severely affected due to the onslaught of moderate to heavy rains, casting a shadow over Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar.

Local administrations have the authority to declare holidays based on the severity of the weather conditions. However, it is imperative for parents and guardians to remain cautious and avoid falling prey to misinformation spread on social media platforms. False reports of holiday orders have circulated before, causing confusion among parents. Therefore, it’s advisable to stay informed through official channels.

The aftermath of heavy rains has left a trail of destruction in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Particularly hard-hit are the districts of Pauri, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand, where rain-triggered landslides have inflicted significant damage. Torrential downpours have caused waterlogging in the plains, and the hilly terrain is grappling with challenges of mobility due to landslides at various locations.

Himachal Pradesh, too, is reeling under the relentless impact of unceasing heavy rains over the past 48 hours. The region is facing the dual menace of landslides and cloudbursts, significantly affecting day-to-day life. The Meteorological Department anticipates the persistence of rain in the upcoming days, further exacerbating the situation.

Tragically, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed the loss of 55 lives this year, with numerous houses succumbing to the ravages of rain-induced incidents. Media reports reveal that a staggering 452 roads, including 2 national highways, remain impassable due to landslides.

Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, undertook an aerial survey to assess the damage inflicted by waterlogging in Rishikesh and the disaster-stricken Mohanchatti in Pauri district. In a proactive measure, he has issued instructions to the relief and rescue teams to maintain a state of high alert, aiming to avert any potential untoward occurrences. In light of the anticipated heavy rainfall, the scheduled Chardham Yatra has been deferred until tomorrow.

Turning our attention to the sphere of education, recent heavy rains have prompted the declaration of school holidays across multiple states. The local administrations have been empowered to announce holidays in response to the severe weather conditions. Parents of students are urged to exercise caution against falling prey to fake news, as misleading reports on holidays have previously circulated widely on social media, sowing confusion.