The Taj Mahal is barely visible in the morning these days due to the dense fog cover across North India (Photo: PTI).
All schools in Uttar Pradesh will remain closed till January 1, 2026, due to the extreme cold and fog in the state. Emphasising that the well-being of children remains a top priority during the cold wave, Chief Minister Adityanath warned that any lapse in ensuring their safety would not be tolerated. The directive applies to all schools up to Class 12, irrespective of its affiliation. Thus, all schools of ICSE, CBSE, and the UP Board will remain closed, reported news agency PTI.
The IMD has issued a warning over the possibility of dense fog across UP till at least December 31. The maximum & minimum temperatures are forecast to be around 15 and 10 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Adityanath instructed senior government and administrative officials to stay actively engaged on the ground and personally monitor the situation. He also directed district authorities to make adequate arrangements for blankets and bonfires at public places and issued special guidelines for the proper functioning of night shelters.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting the poor and vulnerable during the harsh winter, the chief minister said all night shelters must be equipped with essential facilities such as bedding, blankets and proper sanitation. Officials were asked to ensure timely distribution of relief material and access to shelter for those in need.
Stressing that no one should be compelled to sleep in the open during the freezing weather, Adityanath said sufficient funds have been released to all districts for blanket distribution, the operation of night shelters and the setting up of bonfires, PTI reported.
After inspecting two night shelters in Gorakhpur, he told reporters that district administrations have been directed to provide adequate beds, blankets, cleanliness and food for those staying at shelter homes. He added that district magistrates have also been empowered to shut schools and declare holidays depending on local conditions, with online classes to be conducted where unavoidable.
The chief minister also visited night shelters near TP Nagar Pass and Dharmshala Bazaar, where he interacted with residents. Expressing satisfaction with the arrangements, he distributed blankets and food to the homeless and assured them of continued government support.
Noting that North India, including Uttar Pradesh, is experiencing an intense cold wave, Adityanath said comprehensive arrangements have been made across districts. Public representatives and officials are involved in distributing blankets and woollens, lighting bonfires at public places and ensuring that night shelters function smoothly.
Appealing to citizens, he urged those who are able to come forward and help the needy during the extreme weather. He also advised people to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel in foggy conditions and stay adequately hydrated even during winter.
Adityanath further said that 480 bonfires have been set up across Gorakhpur city and more than 22,000 needy people have already received blankets and woollen clothing as part of the state’s winter relief efforts.