Agra authorities have ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 12 for one week in view of the continuing severe heat and heatwave conditions in the city. The District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) issued the order, citing children’s safety and health.
According to the administration, the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety and health of children as temperatures have continued to rise over the past several days and heatwave conditions during afternoon hours remain highly dangerous.
Strong sunlight and hot winds began affecting residents from the morning in Agra. Roads appeared nearly deserted during the afternoon, with people stepping out only for essential work.
According to the weather department, there is little likelihood of substantial relief in temperatures in the coming days. Daytime temperatures are running several degrees above normal, with children and elderly people being affected the most due to the intense heat.
The India Meteorological Department has advised people to exercise caution. Experts have urged residents to avoid going outdoors during afternoon hours, drink adequate water, and take measures to protect themselves from direct sunlight.
Following the decision to close schools, parents expressed relief. Several parents said attending school in such intense heat could have posed health risks to children.
Several hospitals in the city have reported an increase in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses. According to doctors, people are arriving at hospitals with complaints of dehydration, heat stroke, and weakness.
The education department has directed school operators to strictly comply with the order. No offline classes will be conducted in any school.
Severe heat conditions in Agra have also become a topic of discussion on social media, with people sharing images of hot winds, empty roads, and scorching weather.
Experts said rising temperatures and heatwave conditions are becoming an increasing challenge, with continued temperature rises being observed due to environmental changes and urbanisation.
The administration said it is continuing to monitor the situation and has urged people to remain cautious.
