Srinagar: In view of the prevailing inclement weather conditions, the Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday announced the closure of all schools and colleges across the Union Territory on Thursday.
Health and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo said that the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety of students and staff. “All educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir shall remain closed tomorrow,” she said.
The decision comes at a time when incessant rainfall has triggered flood-like conditions across the UT. In Kashmir, the water level of river Jhelum at Ram Munshi Bagh, Srinagar has already crossed the alert mark, while in Jammu division, several rivers and streams are flowing above the danger level.
Thousands of people have been evacuated from low-lying areas, while rescue and relief operations by the Army, NDRF, and SDRF are underway in coordination with divisional authorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier expressed grief over the deaths in a landslide along the Vaishno Devi route and assured all assistance, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has been monitoring the situation and directing officials to prioritise restoration of power, water supply, and communication lines in flood-hit areas.
Earlier, Kashmir University and JK High Court also postponed their examinations scheduled for August 28 due to weather-related disruptions. Officials have advised people to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay away from water bodies.
