School Holidays Announced: All Govt, Private Schools & Colleges To Be Closed Due To Heavy Rains In This State

School Holidays: Continuous downpours in Himachal Pradesh have forced the closure of schools and colleges in eight districts as a precautionary measure. Authorities confirmed that all government and private educational institutions - except residential ones - will remain closed in Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, Chamba, Una, and Solan.

The move comes after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Kangra and Chamba districts and an orange warning for other parts of the state on Monday. A yellow alert for heavy rains will remain in place till August 31.

Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa said that educational and technical institutions, including universities, will remain shut to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Heavy rains have already caused widespread disruption, blocking 685 roads, including three national highways, and triggering landslides and flash floods. In Hamirpur, water entered a tehsil office, while in Shimla's Tutikandi area, a house was endangered after its retaining wall collapsed.

Meanwhile, the Manimahesh Yatra has been suspended due to unsafe weather conditions.

The precautionary school holidays highlight the growing concern for student safety as Himachal continues to experience intense rainfall and weather-related hazards.