Bardibas Shuts Schools for Two Days as Heat Wave Puts Students at Risk

Bardibas Municipality in Mahottari has ordered all schools in its jurisdiction to close for two days as a sharp rise in temperature raises concerns about student health and safety. The move affects community, institutional, and religious schools, which will remain shut on Thursday and Friday.

Local authorities said the decision was driven by the intense heat that has built up over the past several days, creating conditions they consider unsafe for children in classrooms. The temporary closure is intended to reduce the risk of heat-related illness and discomfort among students.

Why the closure was ordered

Officials in Bardibas said temperatures have climbed significantly over the past five days, prompting urgent action. Rather than continuing classes in extreme weather, the municipality opted for a short break to protect children from potential health problems.

The step reflects a broader pattern in the region, where local units have periodically adjusted school schedules in response to rising temperatures. Similar decisions have been taken in Mahottari in past heat spells when schools faced unsafe learning conditions.

What schools are affected

The closure applies to all major categories of schools in the municipality, including:

Community schools

Institutional schools

Religious schools

Authorities have said the holidays will be managed according to local arrangements, helping schools make up for the lost instructional time later.

Heat and classroom safety

School closures during extreme heat are becoming a practical response in parts of South Asia, where high temperatures can quickly create dangerous conditions for children. Young students are especially vulnerable to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and reduced concentration in overcrowded or poorly ventilated classrooms.

For Bardibas families, the decision offers a short-term disruption but may also provide relief as the municipality prioritizes health over routine class schedules. The next step will likely depend on how quickly temperatures normalize and whether local officials see conditions improving enough for schools to reopen safely.