Bihar schools face uncertainty on January 12, 2026, as severe cold wave and fog persist across districts, with some like Muzaffarpur reopening under revised timings while others extend closures. Parents await official confirmations from DMs, as decisions vary by local weather conditions and invoke Section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
Bihar School Reopening Status: Key Districts Breakdown
Winter vacations and cold-induced closures have disrupted academics since late December 2025, with IMD forecasting continued chill till mid-January.
District-Wise Update (as of Jan 11, 2026):
| District | Status on Jan 12 | Timings/Details | Source[s] |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzaffarpur | Open (All classes) | 10 AM–3:30 PM till Jan 17 |
| Patna | Likely closed (up to Class 8) | Extended till Jan 11+; Classes 9–12: 10:30 AM–3:30 PM |
Authorities monitor daily temperatures and fog; updates via official notices expected today.
Why Bihar Schools Facing Repeated Closures?
Severe cold wave since Dec 2025 has dropped temperatures to 8–12°C with dense fog, posing risks to children’s health and travel safety. Key factors:
Health priority: Focus on Classes 1–8; exemptions for board exams/pre-boards.
District autonomy: DMs issue localised orders under emergency provisions.
Over 20 Bihar districts have extended breaks, unlike fixed vacations in states like Haryana (till Jan 15).
Official Guidelines for Reopening Schools
When schools reopen, expect standard precautions:
- Revised timings: 10 AM start, 3:30 PM end to avoid peak cold/fog.
- Applies to: Govt/private schools, pre-schools, anganwadis, coaching centres.
- Enforcement: Strict monitoring by BDOs, DEOs; penalties for violations.
- Exemptions: Exam classes run full schedule.
Parents urged to check school WhatsApp groups or district portals for last-minute changes.
Parent Checklist: Preparing for January 12 School Return
As some Bihar schools reopen tomorrow, ensure readiness:
- Warm clothing: Woollens, caps, gloves mandatory.
- Safe transport: Avoid early fog hours; use school buses.
- Health kit: Immunity boosters, hot water flasks.
- Monitor updates: Follow DM office Twitter/Facebook or helplines.
Hotlines: Patna DEO (0612-XXXXXXX), Muzaffarpur DM office.
Weather Forecast: Impact on School Decisions
IMD predicts: Minimums 9–11°C in north Bihar on Jan 12; partial relief post-Makar Sankranti but fog persists. Districts like Patna may extend closures if no improvement, while sunnier areas like Saharsha resume normally.
What If Closures Extended? Academic Impact
Prolonged breaks raise concerns over syllabus coverage ahead of board exams, prompting compensatory classes post-winter. Education Dept advises online resources for continuity.
Stay Updated: Check official Bihar Education portal or local news for real-time status. Decisions prioritise student safety amid harsh winter.
Bihar Latest School News: Muzaffarpur leads reopenings; Patna watches weather closely.