In a drastic response to the unrelenting cold wave, authorities in Joypurhat and Kurigram districts have announced the closure of all primary and secondary schools. This unprecedented move comes as temperatures plummet, posing significant challenges to the local communities.

Joypurhat Deputy Commissioner (DC) Salehin Tanvir Gazi said that in light of the severe cold conditions, they have decided to shut all primary and secondary educational institutions for two days. The decision follows a report from the nearby Naogaon meteorological office, which recorded temperatures in Joypurhat district dipping below 10 degrees Celsius.

Adding to the winter’s grip, the Kurigram district administration has extended the closure of 1,848 educational institutions, including primary, secondary schools and madrasas, until temperatures rise above 10 degrees Celsius. Kurigram DC Mohammad Saidul Arif advised students to stay indoors and continue their studies, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

The cold snap has dramatically altered daily life in Joypurhat. As of 11:30 am today, the sun remained hidden, compelling vehicles to ply the streets with headlights on, a rare sight for the region.

This shutdown comes after a directive from the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) on January 16. The DSHE granted regional authorities the power to close schools if temperatures fall below 10 degrees Celsius. A cold wave is sweeping different parts of the country, severely hampering educational activities, the DSHE circular stated, emphasizing the need for regional decision-making in these extreme weather conditions.

As the northern parts of Bangladesh continue to grapple with this harsh cold wave, the closure of schools underscores the impact of extreme weather on education and daily life.