By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Flood conditions are developing in Patna, with the Diara area experiencing the worst impact. In response, Patna District Magistrate (DM) Dr Chandrashekhar Singh has ordered the closure of 76 schools across the district until 21 September. The half-yearly examinations, which were due to start on 18 September, have also been postponed in these schools. The examinations will be rescheduled once the flood situation normalises.
Dr Chandrashekhar Singh stated that the Ganga river is currently flowing above the danger mark. Due to the fast-moving current and the risk it poses to the safety of students and teachers, the decision was made in accordance with the Education Department’s letter dated 24 August 2024. The closure affects schools in eight blocks, with a review meeting scheduled for September 21 to assess the situation. Schools will only reopen if the water level recedes. Upon reopening, all safety measures mandated by the department will be implemented at the ghats.
The schools affected by the closure include those located in Ramnagar Diara of Athmalgola, Ibrahimpur of Barh, Chiraiya Rupas of Bakhtiyarpur, Hardaspur Diara, Kala Diara, and Rupas Mahaji of Danapur. Other affected schools are in Akilpur, Ganghara, Hetanpur, Madhavpur, Kasimchak, Manas, Panapur, Patlapur, Haiwaspur, and Momindpur of Fatuha, as well as Ganghara of Maner, Patlapur, Shivnar of Mokama, and Nakata Tola Diara of Patna Sadar.
The Bihar Education Department has directed all district officers to identify ghats from which students and teachers travel to school by boat. The government is arranging boats at these locations, ensuring an adequate supply of life jackets. Additionally, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will be deployed along with trained divers to ensure the safety of all passengers.
