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A sharp cold wave and dense fog grip Uttar Pradesh, forcing Kanpur schools to shut for two days and Varanasi and Lucknow to revise timings. Authorities prioritize student safety as winter disruption deepens- will more districts follow suit?
Kanpur shuts schools for two days
Lucknow: A severe cold wave accompanied by dense fog has disrupted daily life across several districts of Uttar Pradesh, prompting district administrations to announce precautionary measures for school-going children. With temperatures dipping sharply and visibility remaining low during morning hours, authorities in Kanpur, Varanasi and Lucknow have issued fresh orders affecting school operations up to Class 12.
In Kanpur, the district administration has ordered the complete closure of all schools due to the intensifying cold wave and foggy conditions. Acting on the directive issued by the district magistrate, schools from Class 1 to Class 12 will remain closed for two days starting Friday.
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According to the official order, educational institutions will remain shut on December 19 and December 20, 2025, with the possibility of an extension depending on weather conditions. The administration said the decision was taken in the interest of students’ health and safety, as prolonged exposure to extreme cold could pose serious risks. Parents and school authorities have been asked to stay alert for further updates.
Unlike Kanpur, Varanasi has opted to revise school timings rather than announce a complete shutdown. As per orders issued by the district magistrate, all schools up to Class 12 will now function between 10 am and 3 pm.
The revised schedule will come into effect from December 19 and remain applicable until further orders. District officials said the adjustment aims to protect children from early morning cold and dense fog, which has significantly reduced visibility across the city. Authorities also advised parents and schools to monitor weather updates closely, adding that further decisions would be taken based on inputs from the meteorological department.
Earlier, on December 17, the Lucknow administration also revised school timings in view of persistent fog and plunging temperatures. Under the new directive, all schools from Class 1 to Class 12 across all education boards will operate only after 9 am.
Officials noted that the decision was necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of students, especially younger children, during extreme winter conditions. With cold weather expected to persist, administrations across the state remain on high alert and may announce additional measures if required.
