WB Schools, Colleges to be Closed from 3rd January as COVID Positivity Touches 12% in the state, Get Details Here

WB Schools, Colleges Closure: The West Bengal State Government has decided to close-down schools, colleges and other educational institutions in the state from 3rd January – Monday amid the Omicron Surge in the state. The decision comes after the COVID-19 positivity rate in the state crossed 12% on Sunday following which the Mamata Banerjee government announced fresh curbs and limits to curb the rising case numbers.

Schools, College To Operate for Administrative Work at 50% Capacity

The announcement to close down schools and colleges in the state was made by State Chief Secretary HK Dwivedi in a press meet, where he also announced other similar curbs. WB was one of the last states to resume physical or offline classes for school students and the recent rise in cases has again forced the state government to impose restrictions and close down educational institutions. In the official order issued by the state government reads “All academic activities in schools, colleges and universities shall remain closed. Only administrative activities shall be permitted with 50% of employees at a time.”

Prior to closing down of Schools and Colleges, the State Education Department had asked teachers and non-teaching staffers having cough, cold or mild fever to not attend schools till they test negative for COVID-19. With complete closure of schools and colleges announced, WB becomes the second state in the country to close down educational institutions after Delhi.

Fresh Lockdown Restrictions Announced

With the state witnessing fresh surge of COVID cases, including increase in Omicron cases, the state government has announced fresh curbs and restrictions. As part of these new guidelines, all educational institutions including government and private schools and all higher education institutions will remain closed for physical classes. On similar lines, the state government has also announced curb on public places like parks, swimming pools and even tourist places, which will remain closed. On the other hand, government offices and private offices have been asked to function at maximum of 50% capacity.

Also Read: Maharashtra School Not to be Closed For now, Speedy Vaccination Drive for Students Planned: Health Minister