Himachal Pradesh has ordered the closure of all educational institutions in three districts after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall. The shutdown covers Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur districts on July 20 and 21.
The weather office has forecast intense downpours in Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur on Monday, with the warning expanding to include Kullu on Tuesday. This has raised fears of flash floods, landslides and widespread disruption across the region.
District authorities issue closure orders
Responding to the warning, Kangra district magistrate Hem Raj Bairwa directed all government and private educational institutions to remain closed for two days. Similar orders were issued by Mandi deputy commissioner Apoorv Devgan and Sirmaur deputy commissioner Priyanka Verma.
The closure covers schools, colleges and other educational institutions in these districts. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff during the expected heavy rainfall.
IMD red alert details
The India Meteorological Department issued the red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in the region. The warning specifically highlighted the risk of flash floods and landslides in hilly areas, which are common during such intense weather events.
According to the IMD forecast, the heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the next few days, with the warning area expanding to include Kullu district on Tuesday.
Our Take: Precaution is the right call
In our view, the decision to shut schools in these three districts is a sensible and necessary precaution. When the IMD issues a red alert, it means there is a high risk of dangerous weather. Sending children to school during such conditions would be irresponsible.
The authorities in Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur have acted quickly and decisively. This is exactly the kind of proactive response that saves lives. While school closures cause inconvenience for parents and families, safety must always come first — especially in hilly regions where landslides and flash floods can strike with little warning.
Residents in the affected districts should follow weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during the heavy rain period.
