Rain, hailstorm intensify cold wave in Agra

Agra, Jan 15: Rain and hailstorm in Uttar Pradesh's Agra city led to a drop in temperatures, forcing authorities to shut down schools till Jan 18, officials said Thursday.

The day temperature Wednesday plummeted to 13.4 degrees, while the minimum was 7.4 degrees Celsius, affecting the festivities and fervour of Makar Sankranti.

Agra District Magistrate Pankaj Kumar has ordered extension of winter holidays till Jan 18 and has told schools to follow the orders.

Agriculturists, however, said the water-logging in the fields could affect potato and mustard crops.

In Mathura and Vrindavan, pilgrims braved chilly winds for the holy dip in the river Yamuna.

"Since morning devotees are reaching the ghats for the special Makar Sankranti snaan and puja. Khichdi and gajak will be distributed," said Ganno Pandit of Vishram Ghat in Mathura.

IANS