Sambalpur, Jul 6: The Sambalpur district administration has ordered the closure of all educational institutions on Monday as continuous rainfall and adverse weather conditions continue to affect the district.

The order, issued by the Collector and District Magistrate, applies to all government and private schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions across Sambalpur district, including the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) area and Dhankauda Block.

The administration said the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and non-teaching staff amid the prevailing weather conditions and the possibility of further heavy rainfall.

Authorities have directed all educational institutions to strictly comply with the closure order and urged residents to remain vigilant. People have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel as persistent rain continues to disrupt normal life in the district.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department> (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over Sambalpur and several other parts of Odisha. The weather agency has warned of waterlogging in low-lying areas, localized flooding, poor visibility, and rising water levels in rivers and streams due to incessant rainfall.

With the southwest monsoon remaining active over the state, district administrations have intensified precautionary measures to minimize rain-related risks. Similar closure orders have also been issued in Cuttack, Boudh, Sonepur, Nuapada, and Kandhamal districts as authorities continue to closely monitor the evolving weather situation.

The administration has appealed to the public to stay indoors unless necessary, follow official advisories, and exercise caution until the weather conditions improve.