Odisha Schools in Diarrhoea-Affected Areas to Remain Closed: What You Need to Know

In response to a diarrhoea outbreak, the Odisha government has announced the closure of schools and anganwadi centres in Jajpur and Bhadrak. The closures aim to protect students as the state monitors the health crisis, which has resulted in multiple fatalities. Authorities are implementing safety measures, including providing boiled drinking water and ensuring cleanliness in schools. As the situation develops, experts are actively reviewing health protocols in the affected districts. Stay informed about the latest updates and safety precautions being taken.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2025, 19:10 IST

Closure of Schools Due to Health Concerns

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government announced on Thursday that all educational institutions and anganwadi centres in Jajpur will remain closed until June 24, while those in Bhadrak will stay shut until June 21 due to a diarrhoea outbreak, according to officials.

Separate orders have been issued by the district administrations of both Jajpur and Bhadrak regarding this closure.

Schools and anganwadi centres throughout Odisha, with the exception of those in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, are set to reopen on June 20 following the summer break.

Earlier, Nityananda Gond, the School and Mass Education Minister, stated that collectors have been given the authority to determine when schools in the three affected districts—Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Cuttack—can reopen based on the current situation.

The state government is taking the diarrhoea outbreak very seriously and has instructed officials to closely monitor the situation in vulnerable districts before allowing schools to resume activities, Gond added.

As of Wednesday, two additional deaths due to diarrhoea were reported in Jajpur district, raising the total fatalities to 13, as confirmed by a health department official.

The latest deaths occurred in the Vyasanagar area of the district.

Currently, 196 patients are receiving treatment at various healthcare facilities in Jajpur.

Gond emphasized that the state government has implemented several precautionary measures to ensure student safety.

Schools without water purification systems have been directed to provide boiled drinking water to students, and mid-day meal cooks have been instructed to serve hot meals.

Similar safety measures will be enforced in residential schools, according to the minister.

Before reopening after the summer break, there will be a focus on cleaning school premises and water tanks.

Additionally, fast food stalls near school campuses will be closed as a precaution.

In the meantime, three joint teams of experts from both the Centre and the state government visited Cuttack, Jajpur, and Bhadrak on Thursday to conduct field inspections and reviews.

These teams are tasked with monitoring various aspects of diarrhoea control and prevention initiatives in these districts.