Ten schools in Narayanbagar area of Chamoli district have been closed for students from August 20 to 23 due to concerns over stray and aggressive dogs. The decision was taken to protect students after the Pramukh of Kshetra Panchayat Narayanbagar wrote to the authorities on August 19, drawing attention to the growing threat from stray dogs in the area.
Chamoli Chief Education Officer Akash Saraswat issued the closure order following directions from the District Magistrate. Students will remain at home during the four-day closure. Teachers have been asked to continue lessons through online classes so that studies are not affected.
The Block Education Officer and Deputy Education Officer (Primary Education), Narayanbagar, have been asked to ensure that all the affected schools follow the order.
The move comes amid growing concern over the safety of children because of the increasing number of stray dogs, including some reported to be aggressive. The official order cited the “serious threat posed by stray/aggressive dogs” and said the step was necessary to avoid any incident involving students.
The situation has also worried local residents. Children could be at greater risk while walking to and from school, particularly in areas where aggressive dogs have been reported.
Several dog-bite incidents have reportedly been reported in Narayanbagar in the past. Authorities have since been taking steps to identify and control aggressive stray dogs, with teams from different departments involved in the efforts.
For now, the administration is focusing on keeping students safe while ensuring that their education continues through online classes.
Officials will review the situation before the schools are expected to reopen after August 23. Further action will be taken if the threat from stray dogs continues.
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