VIKAS SHARMA
JAMMU, SEPT 2: Hours after IMCSD Herald highlighted the plight of higher education institutions reeling under torrential rains in Jammu Division, the Higher Education Department of J&K UT swung into action on Tuesday and ordered the closure of all Government Degree Colleges and the Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) across Jammu Division on September 3, 2025.
This marks the first major news impact of IMCSD Herald, underscoring the publication’s role in amplifying student and institutional concerns during the ongoing crisis.
According to the official directive, the step was taken in view of the continuous downpour that has created flood-like conditions in several districts, severely affecting mobility and raising safety concerns for both students and faculty.
Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director of Colleges, J&K, who issued the order, said:
“The closure was imperative to ensure the safety of students and faculty amid worsening weather conditions. The department will review the situation before resuming classwork.”
The order has been circulated to all Deputy Commissioners, the Divisional Commissioner, the University of Jammu, Cluster University Jammu, and Principals of all Government Degree Colleges. The Information Department has also been directed to widely publicize the decision through print and electronic media.
The move comes at a time when Jammu region is already struggling with landslides, waterlogging, and transport breakdowns, making commuting extremely difficult. Just a day earlier, students were seen wading through knee-deep water to reach their colleges.
The Directorate has instructed that the notification be uploaded on its official website for public information. Normal functioning of colleges is expected to resume only after the weather situation is reviewed and declared safe.
With this swift administrative action following the IMCSD Herald report, the power of responsible journalism in addressing community issues has once again been demonstrated.
