The Manipur government has extended school holidays in flood-affected districts until further notice. The move aims to safeguard students and teachers as heavy rainfall continues to cause flooding and landslides across the state.
An official notification from the Directorate of Education (Schools) was released late Sunday, instructing all schools in the impacted regions to remain shut. The order affects both government and private institutions in districts such as Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching.
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Safety First: School Holidays in Flood-Affected Districts Extended
In the notification, the Education Department cited ongoing waterlogging, poor road conditions, and safety concerns as reasons for keeping schools closed. Authorities confirmed that several school buildings in low-lying areas have been inundated or rendered inaccessible.
“Due to the widespread damage caused by torrential rains, it is unsafe to reopen educational institutions at this time,” the order stated. “The extension of school holidays in flood-affected districts is necessary to protect students and staff.”
This directive will remain in force until the situation improves and a fresh review is conducted.
Parents and Teachers Support the Move
Parents have welcomed the government’s decision to prioritise safety. Many expressed relief that the administration acted in time, especially after seeing images of submerged roads and damaged school compounds.
“My son’s school in Thoubal has been underwater for two days,” said L. Sandhyarani, a parent. “We’re thankful the school holidays in flood-affected districts have been extended. It’s better than risking children’s lives.”
Teachers, too, supported the move and urged the government to assess structural damage before reopening campuses. Several schools reported water entering classrooms, destroying furniture and supplies.
Students Shift to Online and Community Learning
In areas with stable internet connectivity, some schools have switched to online learning to maintain academic continuity. Teachers have been advised to share study materials via WhatsApp or local community networks where possible.
However, education officials admitted that such measures are limited by poor connectivity and power outages, especially in rural flood-hit zones.
Volunteers and NGOs have stepped in to conduct informal classes at relief camps, where displaced students have taken shelter. These efforts aim to reduce learning disruption during the extended school holidays in flood-affected districts.
Education Department to Conduct Damage Survey
To plan for eventual reopening, the Education Department has deployed teams to assess the condition of school infrastructure in the affected districts. Their responsibilities include evaluating water damage, checking building safety, and recommending repairs.
Officials said the survey would be completed in phases, starting with the worst-affected districts like Imphal East and Bishnupur.
“The safety of students is our top concern,” said a senior officer. “Only after a full evaluation will we consider lifting the extended school holidays in flood-affected districts.”
Concerns Over Academic Losses
Despite support for the decision, some parents and educators worry that prolonged closures may affect exam preparations and academic performance, especially for board exam candidates.
Educationists are urging the government to release a revised academic calendar, along with study support once schools reopen. They have also requested mental health support for students who are coping with both disaster trauma and disrupted studies.
“Exams can be postponed, but children must not be abandoned during crises,” said Th. Debala Devi, a school principal in Kakching.
Flood Situation Still Dire in Manipur
Manipur has experienced intense monsoon rains for nearly a week, triggering floods in multiple districts. The state’s Disaster Management Authority reported that over 50,000 people have been affected so far. Relief camps have been set up, and the army has been deployed for rescue operations in certain areas.
Infrastructure damage, including roads, electricity poles, and bridges, has made transportation difficult. The continued closure of schools is part of a broader strategy to limit movement and ensure public safety.
Central and State Support On the Way
The state government has requested assistance from the Centre to speed up relief and repair efforts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly assured full support, including NDRF deployment and relief material supplies.
Education officials are also coordinating with disaster management teams to prioritize schools for rehabilitation once the rains subside.
Long-Term Measures Being Considered
This episode has prompted calls for long-term flood-proofing of schools in vulnerable zones. Experts suggest that the state should build elevated school buildings, install emergency kits, and integrate weather alerts into the school calendar.
“The school holidays in flood-affected districts will keep repeating if we don’t adapt,” said S. Brojen Singh, an education policy expert. “We need a structural approach, not just temporary closures.”
Conclusion: Children’s Safety Comes First
With floodwaters still threatening lives and property, the government’s decision to extend school holidays in flood-affected districts highlights a strong focus on child safety and disaster preparedness. While academic concerns remain, most stakeholders agree that protecting lives must come first.
As Manipur works toward recovery, the future reopening of schools will depend entirely on improved weather, reduced flood levels, and verified structural safety.
