Cross-LoC Shelling: 87 schools along forward areas in Rajouri closed

Classes to be conducted at Relief Camps: DC

RAJOURI, MAY 13: District Development Commissioner, Rajouri, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary has ordered closure of 87 schools along LoC till further orders in view of recurrent cross-border shelling in the villages located in the forward areas of the district.

“Around 87 schools with total enrollment of 4457 students in areas along LoC affected by shelling from across the border in district Rajouri will remain closed till further orders,” Dr Shahid said.

He said in 0-5 KM range from LoC in Nowshera, 51 schools have been closed which includes 2 Higher Secondary Schools and 5 High Schools with a total enrolment of 2829 students. “Besides,36 schools located in Dandesar, Doongi and Manjakote will also remain closed for next three days,” he said adding these include 2 schools in Dandesar zone, 18 in Doongi and 16 in Manjakote zone. 

“During the ceasefire violation at least 2 schools were damaged in Jhangar area of Nowshera zone today while a mortar shell hit Middle School Thathiali in Manjakote area,” the DDC said adding that the decision to close the schools in the area has been taken to ensure safety of the students and the staff.

Meanwhile, he said, the district administration has made arrangements for functioning of Anganwari centres and informal classes at relief camps.