Severe Weather Conditions Prompt Closure of Educational Institutions Across Azad Kashmir

MIRPUR: In light of the worsening weather conditions, the government of Azad Kashmir has announced the closure of all educational institutions across the region. According to an official notification, all schools and colleges in Azad Kashmir will remain closed on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

The decision was made by Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education Inayat Ali Qazi, who directed the Divisional Director of Poonch to ensure the closure of all government and private educational institutions (both for boys and girls) in the Poonch division due to the severe weather conditions. Citizens have been advised to take nthe ecessary precautions to protect themselves and their children from the harsh weather.

In Rawalakot (Poonch), all Red Foundation schools and colleges have also announced their closure on March 4, 2025, due to heavy snowfall.

Similarly, in the Jhelum Valley, all government and private elementary and secondary educational institutions will remain closed on March 4. In Upper Neelum, a notification has been issued to keep educational institutions closed on both March 4 and March 5.

District Education Officer Neelum, Khawaja Zakir, stated that schools in the Sargun Valley, Shonthar Valley, and Grace Valley of Upper Neelum, as well as in the Jagran Valley of Lower Neelum, where students are at risk of being affected by glaciers, will remain closed for the next two days. He further advised heads of institutions to make independent decisions if any additional risks arise.

Residents are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts and follow safety guidelines to avoid any untoward incidents during this period.