FAZILKA, Aug. 26 — Fazilka District Magistrate Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu on Monday ordered all government, private and semi-government schools in villages along the Sutlej River to remain closed until August 28, citing the ongoing flood situation and safety concerns for children.
The order comes as heavy rainfall across Punjab has caused the Sutlej to swell, flooding several villages in Fazilka district. According to officials, villages including Muhar Jamsher, Mahatam Nagar, Teja Ruhela, Chak Ruhela, Dona Nanaka, Dhani Labh Singh, Ram Singh Bhaini, Jhangar Bhaini, Rete Wali Bhaini, Gatti No. 1, Walle Shah Uttar (Noorshah), Muhar Khiva, Muhar Sona, Walle Shah Hithad (Gulaba Bhaini), Dhani Sadda Singh, Guddar Bhaini, Ghurka, Dhani Mohana Ram, Muhar Khiva Bhavani, and Rete Wali Dhani (Muhar Jamsher) have been heavily inundated.
District officials noted that students and staff from remote areas are struggling to reach schools safely, creating the risk of accidents. “In view of the safety of children and the flood situation, schools in the affected border villages will remain closed till August 28,” Sandhu said.
The directive, however, does not apply to teachers and staff members, who are expected to report for duty. The exemption also extends to students whose examination centers are located in the affected schools.
Authorities said the situation in low-lying villages continues to be monitored, with further decisions to be taken depending on water levels in the Sutlej.
