Heads Up, Shimla! Schools Closed Monday as Heavy Rains Trigger Red Alert
SHIMLA – In a move prioritizing public safety, the district administration has announced a preemptive closure of all schools and colleges across Shimla on Monday, September 1st. The decision comes as relentless rainfall continues to batter the region, triggering landslides and roadblocks.
The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap (IAS), is a direct response to a severe weather warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A Red Alert is in effect, predicting more “heavy to very heavy” downpours over the next 12-24 hours, raising serious concerns for student and staff safety.
What’s Closed?
The directive is comprehensive, shutting down all educational institutions to avoid any unnecessary risk. This includes:
· All government and private schools and colleges
· Anganwadi centres
· ITIs and polytechnics
· Coaching institutes
· Nursing colleges
Why the Precaution?
The decision wasn’t made lightly. The persistent rains have already caused significant disruption across the district, with reports of:
· Landslides in several areas
· Trees being uprooted and falling
· Multiple roads being blocked or damaged
The IMD forecasts that the worst is yet to come, with “intense to very intense” spells of rain expected specifically in Shimla and surrounding districts. The alert also warns of potential landslides and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Staying Safe During the Deluge
Authorities are urging all residents to exercise extreme caution. Here’s what you need to know:
· Avoid unnecessary travel. If you don’t have to be on the roads, stay home.
· Steer clear of rivers and nullahs (storm drains), as water levels can rise suddenly and without warning.
· In case of an emergency, help is just a call away. Contact the disaster management team at 1077 or the Shimla control room numbers: 01905-226201, 226202, 226203, 226204.
The administration’s message is clear: safety first. By closing schools and issuing these warnings, they hope to keep everyone secure until the intense weather system passes. Residents are advised to stay informed, stay indoors, and heed all official advisories.
