VIKAS SHARMA
JAMMU, SEPT 1: The Directorate of School Education, Jammu (DSEJ), has ordered the closure of all government and private schools across the Jammu division on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in view of persistent inclement weather and the heightened risk of landslides in hilly areas.
The decision was taken after continuous heavy rainfall created hazardous conditions, prompting authorities to prioritize the safety of students, teachers, and school staff.
According to the circular issued by the Directorate, the suspension of physical classes is a precautionary step aimed at ensuring that no untoward incident occurs due to the prevailing weather situation. The DSEJ has made it clear that the safety of children remains the foremost concern, and no compromises will be made in this regard.
At the same time, the Directorate has directed schools to conduct online classes wherever possible so that the academic calendar is not severely disrupted. The department has stressed that digital platforms must be effectively utilized to maintain academic continuity, especially in areas where internet connectivity allows smooth online learning.
In a related development, the DSEJ has also issued a comprehensive circular laying down Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the eventual reopening of schools. The circular highlights that no school will be permitted to resume physical classes until a thorough structural assessment of its building has been conducted and certified safe by competent authorities. This directive comes against the backdrop of widespread reports of water seepage, cracks, and damage to school infrastructure due to the recent torrential rains.
The department has instructed school heads to coordinate closely with the local administration, village leaders, and community-based organizations in order to make temporary arrangements for students in case their school buildings are declared unsafe. Officials said that community halls, religious places, and panchayat ghars may serve as alternative venues for holding classes until regular school buildings are restored.
Emphasizing the importance of safety, the circular further directs principals, teachers, and staff to remain vigilant and strictly follow the issued guidelines. Before reopening, all school buildings will undergo inspection to ensure readiness and structural stability. Only after clearance from the concerned authorities will physical classes be allowed to restart.
Officials in the Directorate said these measures are part of a broader effort to protect the academic community and ensure minimum disruption to learning, even as the region struggles to recover from heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. With the monsoon continuing to lash several parts of Jammu division, the administration has assured parents and guardians that every necessary precaution will be taken to safeguard the wellbeing of students.
