Bhubaneswar, July 31 (UDN): The Odisha Government has suspended classes in schools across four districts as a precautionary measure amid the worsening flood situation caused by rising water levels in the Mahanadi river system and its tributaries.
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District administrations of Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Bhadrak and Khordha have ordered the closure of all educational institutions on July 31 and August 1 to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Jagatsinghpur Declares Two-Day School Holiday
The Jagatsinghpur district administration issued an emergency notification announcing the closure of all schools in view of the anticipated flood situation following the heavy discharge of water through the Mahanadi river system.
The order, issued by the Collector and District Magistrate, applies to all government, government-aided and private educational institutions and will remain in force for two days.
Earlier Orders Issued in Three Districts
The district administrations of Jajpur, Bhadrak and Khordha had already announced similar closures on Thursday after continuous rainfall and increasing river levels heightened concerns over possible flooding.
The holiday order covers government, government-aided and private schools, including Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas (OAVs) and Higher Secondary Schools, across the affected districts.
Precautionary Measure Amid Flood Threat
The decision comes as the state remains on high alert with the Mahanadi and several other rivers witnessing a steady rise in water levels due to heavy inflows from the upper catchment areas. Authorities fear inundation in several low-lying regions and have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant.
District administrations have directed all Block Education Officers and heads of educational institutions to strictly implement the closure orders and monitor the evolving situation.
The state government continues to review the flood scenario closely while coordinating rescue, relief and precautionary measures in districts facing the threat of inundation.