Red Alert in Goa: Schools closed up to Class 8 amid heavy rains

Considering the Red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to Goa, two-day holiday for school students up to Class 8 has been announced.

Amid the extremely heavy rainfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on July 7 issued a red alert warning in Goa over the next 24 hours and very heavy showers until July 10. Considering the situation, state Director of Education Shailesh Sinai Zingde on Thursday issued a circular announcing a two-day holiday for school students up to Class 8. However regular classes will be conducted for students of Classes 9 to 12, the official statement said.

Class to continue for Class 9 to 12 students

In light of the weather warning, the state government has announced to shut schools for students up to Class 8 for the next two days, an official said. The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall over Goa on Friday and very heavy rainfall on July 9 to 10, according to the circular.

According to a release issued by the state information and publicity department, the government has also released necessary instructions to the disaster management authority to activate the field machinery for taking precautionary actions and to tackle any situation arising out of heavy rains.

Citizens asked to take precautions

“The general public are requested to take precautionary measures – avoid staying near weak trees/structures or areas vulnerable to landslides and rock falls and not drive into flooded areas. Avoid going to areas that face water-logging problems,” the release said.

Considering the safety of the citizens, people have been asked to take precautions while dealing with electricity and avoid venturing into water bodies, it said. Normal life was affected in parts of the coastal state, as several roads and bridges remained submerged due to incessant rainfall.

Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa said that the roof of an anganwadi caved in on Wednesday night due to rains. At least 30 students are enrolled in the anganwadi, he said, adding that alternative arrangements have been made for students to continue their classes.

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