Schools in Bharatpur closed today as Met Dept issues Yellow Alert amid rain, thunderstorms
Jaipur, Aug 8
Heavy rainfall has lashed several parts of Rajasthan, with waterlogging reported in many areas and commuters facing difficulties. Amid the rains, the Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for Bharatpur, warning of light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds on Saturday. In view of the weather conditions, schools across the district remained closed on Saturday.
According to the warning issued by the Meteorological Centre, Jaipur, some parts of Bharatpur may receive light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms. Strong winds with speeds of 30-40 kmph are also expected.
The warning is valid for the next three hours. Similar weather conditions have been forecast in several other districts of eastern Rajasthan, including Dholpur, Karauli, Dausa, Alwar, Kotputli-Behror, and Deeg.
Amid continuous rainfall and the weather department's warning, the district administration has declared a holiday for students in all government and private schools in Bharatpur district on August 8.
The order applies to students from pre-primary through Class 12. All Anganwadi centres in the district will also remain closed for the day.
The administration said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to protect children from risks associated with heavy rain, thunderstorms, waterlogging, and difficult travel conditions.
However, the holiday applies only to students and Anganwadi beneficiaries. Teaching and other staff members of schools and Anganwadi centres are required to report to their respective institutions at their scheduled times. According to an order issued by District Collector Kamar Chaudhary, continued rainfall could cause waterlogging in several parts of the district and disrupt transportation.
The administration, therefore, decided to keep students away from schools for the day to reduce the risks involved in travelling during adverse weather conditions.
The district administration has directed the heads of all government and private educational institutions, along with the concerned officials, to ensure strict compliance with the holiday order.
Schools operating despite the declared holiday or failing to comply with the administration's directions may face action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
The administration has also appealed to parents to avoid sending their children outside unnecessarily during the adverse weather and to follow all safety advisories issued by the authorities.
— IANS
Reader Comments
But why are teachers still required to come in? If it's dangerous for students to travel, it's equally risky for teachers too. The administration should have given a full holiday. Just saying.
This is how it should be done! Mausam ki marzi ke aage koi nahi chalta. At least the kids are safe at home. Metro cities should also learn from Rajasthan's proactive approach.
I appreciate the caution, but closing entire schools for a yellow alert seems a bit excessive. In the West, yellow alerts rarely lead to closures. But I understand the infrastructure there is different. Hopefully, the authorities use this time to also fix the drainage systems.
At least parents won't have to worry about their kids getting stuck in flooded streets. It's a welcome move. Now if only they could also declare work-from-home for the parents too! 😄
I'm curious if the Disaster Management Act penalties are enforced. It's a good policy that they have teeth, but only if it's actually followed. Schools that violate the order need to be taken seriously, as it's about child safety.
Typical Rajasthan weather drama! 🌧️ But I'm happy they're not taking any chances with kids. The
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