Dehradun Schools, Anganwadi Centres Shut Today After Orange Alert For Rain

Schools and Anganwadi centres across Dehradun district have been ordered to remain closed as authorities prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall, lightning and the possibility of extremely heavy rain in some areas. The precautionary closure applies to government, private and non-government schools covering Classes 1 to 12, along with Anganwadi centres. Officials said the decision was taken to reduce risks to students, children and staff amid the adverse weather forecast.

The one-day closure was ordered by the Dehradun District Magistrate, who also serves as the chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority. The decision followed an Orange alert and weather forecasts indicating difficult conditions across parts of the district. Authorities said heavy rainfall combined with lightning could create hazardous conditions, particularly for students travelling to and from educational institutions. The closure is therefore being treated as a disaster mitigation measure rather than a routine holiday.

According to the official order issued earlier, the latest forecast and nowcast indicated the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall during the following 24 hours. Some parts of Dehradun district were also expected to receive spells of extremely heavy rain, raising concerns about waterlogging, disrupted roads and other weather-related incidents. Lightning accompanying thunderstorms was another factor considered by officials while deciding to keep educational institutions closed.

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The order covers schools affiliated with different management categories, ensuring that government, private and non-government institutions follow the same safety measure. The Chief Education Officer and District Programme Officer have been instructed to ensure that the directions are implemented throughout the district. Anganwadi centres have also been included because young children may face additional difficulties travelling or remaining in areas affected by intense rainfall.

The precautionary decision comes as heavy rainfall continues to affect parts of Uttarakhand, with authorities keeping a close watch on river levels and conditions in vulnerable areas. In nearby Rishikesh, the water level of the Ganga has risen following continued rainfall in the Garhwal hills. Although officials said the river remained below the warning level, its strong flow prompted additional safety measures around major ghats and tourist areas.

Disaster response teams, including personnel from the State Disaster Response Force, Water Police and disaster relief units, have been deployed at important locations in Rishikesh, Muni Ki Reti and Lakshman Jhula. Announcements are being made through loudspeakers asking residents, tourists and devotees to exercise caution near the river. With further heavy rainfall forecast, authorities have urged people to remain alert and follow official advisories while monitoring local weather and safety updates.

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