Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced the closure of all schools up to Class 12 across Uttar Pradesh until January 5, 2026, in response to the ongoing severe cold wave sweeping the state. The order encompasses ICSE, CBSE, and UP Board schools, according to an official spokesperson.

The decision aims to safeguard children from extreme cold conditions, with the chief minister emphasising that child safety is paramount and that any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.

Relief Measures and Public Safety

In addition to school closures, CM Yogi issued strict directives to ensure public safety for vulnerable populations. Adequate arrangements for blankets, bedding, and bonfires are to be made at public places across all districts. Special attention is to be given to the operation of night shelters, ensuring that no poor or needy person is left without protection from the harsh cold.

“All necessary facilities, including bedding, blankets, and cleanliness, must be ensured at all night shelters,” the CM stated. He further directed officials to distribute relief material and ensure timely shelter for the needy, stressing that no person should be forced to sleep outdoors during the severe weather conditions.

Mobilisation of Officials

The state government has released adequate funds to all districts for blanket distribution, operation of night shelters, and arrangements for bonfires to provide relief to those exposed to the cold. CM Yogi instructed top government and administrative officials to remain mobile in the field, personally assessing conditions on the ground to ensure that relief measures are effectively implemented.

The government’s swift measures are part of an ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and mitigating the impact of extreme weather conditions, particularly for children, the elderly, and the economically disadvantaged.

The closure of schools is expected to give students respite from exposure to freezing temperatures while the administration ramps up efforts to provide sufficient shelter, warmth, and medical assistance across the state.

This proactive approach comes as Uttar Pradesh continues to experience record-low temperatures, prompting authorities to take preventive action to avert health hazards and fatalities associated with the severe cold wave.