Gajapati district administration shut down every school and Anganwadi centre in the region starting September 22. The closure lasts through September 24, a direct response to forecasts predicting a cyclone and heavy rainfall. It’s a precautionary lock-down prioritizing student safety over academic schedules.
District Education Officer Dr. Mayadhar Sahu confirmed the directive comes straight from the District Collector. "We are keeping children safe first," Sahu said. The order covers all government and private institutions, leaving classrooms empty for three days while the weather system moves closer.
But the strictness isn’t just about kids. The Collector has locked down the bureaucracy, too. All concerned officials must remain at their respective headquarters. No one leaves without prior permission. This ensures administrative, emergency, and relief teams can deploy instantly if the situation deteriorates. Departments are on high alert, monitoring the weather system continuously.
Residents are urged to track official updates and follow instructions. The administration says further decisions will hinge on the cyclone’s trajectory. Until then, the district stays ready to respond.