Red alert ignored? Schools closed only after students arrive in West Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 30, 2025

Although the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert warning on May 29, 2025, forecasting heavy rainfall in West Jaintia Hills on May 30, the District Administration appeared unprepared, issuing the closure order for educational institutions only on the morning of the same day—by which time many students had already reached school.

The order, issued vide No. DDMA.58/2015/268 dated Jowai, May 30, 2025, stated:
“In view of the incessant rainfall and strong winds over West Jaintia Hills District, all schools, colleges and educational institutions (both Government and Private) in the district will remain closed today, the 30th May, 2025.”