In response to the severe cold conditions gripping Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has mandated the closure of all schools up to Class 12 until January 1. The directive, issued on Sunday, aims to protect children from the health risks posed by the intense cold wave sweeping across the state.
Statewide School Shutdown and Administrative Directives
The closure order is uniformly applicable to all educational boards operating in Uttar Pradesh, including the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), and the state's own UP Board. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed district officials to ensure strict compliance with this order across all districts without exception.
Emphasizing proactive governance, the CM directed senior officers, district magistrates, and police officials to remain actively present in their respective jurisdictions. He mandated regular field inspections to personally monitor the ground-level impact of the cold wave and the effectiveness of relief measures.
Comprehensive Relief Measures for Vulnerable Populations
Prioritizing the safety of the most vulnerable, the Chief Minister outlined a detailed relief strategy. He instructed officials to ensure adequate arrangements of blankets and bonfires at public places, roadside shelters, and other identified vulnerable spots in every district. The CM stated unequivocally that no person should be forced to sleep in the open during this period of extreme cold.
Special focus was placed on strengthening facilities at 'rain baseras' or night shelters. The CM ordered that all shelters must be fully equipped with essential amenities, which include:
- Adequate bedding and blankets
- Proper heating arrangements
- Safe drinking water
- Sufficient lighting
- Basic medical assistance
Officials have been tasked with personally verifying that homeless individuals are shifted to these shelters and provided with all necessary support.
Zero-Tolerance Policy and Government Commitment
Chief Minister Adityanath issued a stern warning against any negligence in implementing these cold wave relief measures. He affirmed that the state government is fully committed to protecting lives during extreme weather events. The CM expects all departments to work in close coordination to ensure relief reaches every person in need, particularly children, the elderly, and the homeless.
To maintain oversight, district administrations have been instructed to submit regular reports on ongoing relief operations and preparedness levels as the cold wave is predicted to intensify further across Uttar Pradesh. The administrative vigilance on the ground, the CM stressed, is crucial to prevent any loss of life due to exposure to the harsh cold.
