December 29, 2025: In response to an intensifying cold wave and dense fog conditions, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered that all schools up to Class 12 across the state will remain closed till January 1, 2026. The directive, issued by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, applies uniformly to schools affiliated with the UP Board, CBSE, and ICSE, reflecting the state’s focus on students’ safety amid extreme weather conditions. With temperatures plunging and visibility remaining low in many districts, the government has emphasised that the well-being of children is a top priority. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that the closure order is strictly implemented in both government and private schools to minimise risk to students during the severe cold spell.
Cold Wave Impact and Government Safety Measures
The closure comes amid reports of rapidly falling temperatures and dense fog disrupting daily life across Uttar Pradesh. In addition to the school holiday, district administrations have been directed to coordinate and intensify winter relief measures for vulnerable populations. These measures include:
- Distribution of blankets to those in need
- Arranging bonfires and heated public spaces
- Ensuring night shelters are equipped with bedding, warm clothing, and basic facilities
- Oversight by senior officials and frequent field inspections to monitor conditions and relief work
Authorities are also tasked with making sure no one is compelled to sleep outdoors in the harsh cold, and sufficient resources have been released to support relief operations in all 75 districts.
Implementation and Local Administration Role
To enforce the closure effectively, the state government has instructed district magistrates and education officials to stay alert and manage on-ground situations actively. The decision to close schools up to January 1 is based on weather forecasts and IMD advisories, which predict continued cold and fog conditions in the coming days. The order covers students from primary grades through Class 12, and district authorities have been authorised to extend closures further at the local level if conditions worsen. In areas where physical attendance may pose a health risk, officials have also encouraged schools to consider online or alternative learning arrangements where feasible.
Public Safety and Advisory for Residents
Alongside the school closure, the state government has issued advisories for the general public to reduce exposure to extreme cold. Residents have been urged to limit unnecessary travel during early morning hours when fog and low visibility are most severe, and to stay informed about local weather alerts. With the state under a severe cold wave alert, authorities continue to coordinate relief activities while balancing the educational needs of students and prioritising public health and safety.
