Palakkad school holiday declared for October 26 amid heavy rain

A Palakkad school holiday has been declared for Monday, October 26, as continuing heavy rain affects the Kerala district. District Collector K. Sudheer announced on Sunday that educational institutions, including professional colleges, would remain closed.

The order also covers anganwadis, madrasas, tuition and coaching centres, and special classes. Examinations arranged before the announcement will take place according to their existing schedules.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Palakkad for Monday. The district administration warned that the weather could bring flooding, waterlogging and disruption to travel and electricity supplies.

Examinations continue despite institutional closure

The Palakkad school holiday does not cancel examinations already fixed for the day. Previously arranged fairs and festivals may also go ahead if adequate precautions are taken, the Collector said.

Officials warned of possible traffic congestion and reduced visibility, along with flooding in low-lying areas and beside rivers. Falling trees, damage to homes, landslides and soil slips were also identified as risks.

The administration advised people to avoid journeys that were not necessary and remain in safe places. Tourist travel to the hill areas of Nelliyampathy and Attappady could face restrictions because of the weather warning.

The local rain-related closure is separate from holiday arrangements elsewhere in India for Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti. Delhi and Chandigarh are among the places listing the festival holiday, alongside Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.

Other locations have restricted or optional holidays, while Manipur and Tripura list local festivals on the same date. Holiday arrangements therefore differ across states and institutions.

Private schools and those affiliated with CBSE or ICSE may use their own calendars. Parents and students should consult their institution's messages or circulars rather than assume a uniform nationwide closure.

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