Heavy Rainfall Shuts Down Schools in Jharkhand's Palamu, Garhwa, Latehar Districts

Ranchi/Medininagar, Jul 17 (PTI) – In light of ongoing heavy rainfall and forecasts predicting continued downpours, educational institutions across Jharkhand's Palamu, Garhwa, and Latehar districts were closed on Thursday, according to local officials. The three regions have been witnessing significant rainfall over the past 48 hours. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated the likelihood of further heavy rain in certain parts of these districts on Thursday. In response, the Palamu district administration announced the decision to shut all schools as a precautionary move. Efforts are underway to manage waterlogging and potential flooding in the area. In a preventive measure, 38 out of the 40 sluice gates of the Bheem barrage, part of the North Koel project, were opened on Wednesday to alleviate rising water levels. Assistant Engineer Surendra Kumar shared that releasing the gates allowed approximately two lakh cusecs of water to flow, emphasizing the ongoing rise in the North Koel river's water level. Authorities have accordingly warned boaters and fishermen against entering the river. Similarly, Garhwa and Latehar districts are observing school closures as a protective step amid the severe weather conditions. According to the Indian Meteorological Department's rainfall bulletin, Jharkhand has experienced a significant 71% increase in rainfall from June 1 to July 16, with the state receiving 595.8 mm of rain compared to the normal average of 348.9 mm for the same duration.