Schools across Uttar Pradesh will remain closed today, Monday, August 10, as the Kanwar Yatra continues. Several private schools are shifting to online classes to keep academic activities running through the closure. The move follows earlier orders from district administrations in western Uttar Pradesh. These orders were issued in view of the large number of Kanwariyas moving through the region.
Which Districts Have Ordered Closures
District administrations in Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut and Muzaffarnagar have announced the closure of educational institutions for the duration of the Kanwar Yatra. The orders apply to government and private schools affiliated with the Basic Shiksha Parishad, Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad, CBSE, ICSE and Madarsa Board. Moreover, the orders also apply to colleges, universities and technical institutions in the affected areas.
Why Private Schools Are Moving Online
The closure runs for eight days, and many private school authorities were concerned about the effect that stretch could have on students’ academics. Therefore, to keep the syllabus on track, they’ve decided to conduct online classes. They will do so as per the usual timetable through the closure period.
The Reasoning Behind the Order
District administrations have framed the school closures as a precautionary measure. They are meant to protect student safety amid the surge of Kanwar pilgrims and to help ease traffic congestion along the yatra routes. Additionally, all school authorities have been instructed to strictly follow the order. Otherwise, there is a possibility of strict action against any institution that fails to comply.
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus during the holy month of Shravan. As the central part of the yatra, lakhs of devotees of Lord Shiva carry holy Ganga water, typically collected from Haridwar and other sacred ghats. They then offer it at Shiva temples. This year, Shravan Shivratri falls on August 11.
What Happens Next
Schools across Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar and Dhanbad are set to reopen on Thursday, August 13. In the meantime, students and parents are advised to keep checking their school broadcast groups and official circulars for further updates on online classes and holiday schedules.
Curated news reports, in-depth analysis, and special features by India’s Opinion editorial team.
