Bhubaneswar, April 18 -- Amid an intense heatwave, Odisha on Saturday announced the closure of schools and colleges in at least eight districts to safeguard students from the extreme weather conditions. Holidays have been declared in at least eight districts, including Sambalpur, Nuapada, Jharsuguda, and Nabarangpur, where institutions will remain closed from April 20 onwards.

The decision has been taken by the respective District Collectors in view of the prevailing severe heatwave and rising temperatures. Apart from schools, Anganwadi centres and technical educational institutions in these districts will also remain shut until further orders. Officials stated that the move aims to protect children from the adverse effects of prolonged ...