Thiruvananthapuram, 04 August (H.S.):With heavy rain continuing to lash parts of Kerala, the district administrations of Wayanad and Alappuzha have declared a holiday for educational institutions as a precautionary measure, while urging residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution amid adverse weather conditions.

The holiday will apply to all educational institutions, including schools, colleges, professional colleges, anganwadis, religious education classes, tuition centres, training institutes and institutions conducting special classes, according to orders issued by the respective District Collectors.

Residential schools and residential colleges have, however, been exempted from the holiday order. Authorities said the heads of such institutions would be responsible for ensuring the safety of students staying on their campuses.

Institution heads have also been permitted to declare a holiday depending on local conditions if they believe it is necessary to protect students from risks posed by the continuing rain.

In Wayanad, the district administration has asked the public to strictly comply with all restrictions and safety measures imposed in connection with the Red alert. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions issued by the district administration and disaster management authorities.

Tourists currently staying in the district have been specifically cautioned against unnecessary movement. They have been advised to remain at safe accommodation facilities and closely follow directions from local authorities until weather conditions improve.

The administration has also issued a special warning to motorists using the Thamarassery Ghat Road and the Boys Town-Palchuram route, where heavy rainfall could make travel hazardous. Travellers have been asked to exercise extreme caution while passing through these stretches.

People have been urged to avoid all non-essential journeys and undertake travel only when absolutely necessary. The advisory is aimed at reducing risks associated with heavy rain, possible waterlogging and other weather-related hazards.

Officials have stressed that public cooperation is crucial while the severe weather persists. Residents, tourists and motorists have been asked not to ignore official warnings or venture into potentially unsafe areas.

The district administration said the situation would continue to be closely assessed and further restrictions or precautionary measures could be introduced depending on rainfall and local conditions. People have been advised to rely on official updates and comply promptly with instructions from the authorities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman