Smriti Nagpal, a mother of two, said: “January is a very cold month. It is not easy for children to weather such extreme conditions when adults too are shivering. The department has been very understanding in extending the holidays.”

Parents feel that even though the break has been extended for a few days, it is a welcome relief. “Although, there was no sign of winter till December, the mercury has plummeted suddenly. Children tend to fall ill when exposed to such cold conditions. Since schools are opening late, it will protect them at least for the time being,” said another parent, Vivek Gogia, whose son is a student at a government school.

“My daughter is in the Nursery and I was very worried if she would be able to attend classes in this weather. But the department’s decision of extending the holidays by another 10 days has come as a respite from such worries. Changing the school timing too, will help children cope up with the weather,” said Prateek M, another parent.

Not only parents, teachers too are happy with the decision. President of Government Teachers’ Union, Vinod Sharma, said, “Though the department has kept the interest of children in mind, it has come as a blessing for teachers as well. We are glad that instead of being too rigid with the schedule, the officials have understood the plight of students, parents as well as teachers.”

Trains, flights delayed
The thick fog that descended upon the entire region wreaked havoc on air and rail traffic, throwing their schedule haywire.

The Unchahar Express (4217), which runs between Allahabad and Chandigarh was running nine hours late. The Shatabdi Express (2011), between New Delhi and Kalka was late by almost one hour from its scheduled arrival.

Sadbhavna Express (2231), between Lucknow and Chandigarh was late by three hours.

The Jaipur-Chandigarh train was also late by three hours. The Hawrah-Kalka mail was late by 12 hours.

Although flights of Kingfisher airlines, Indian Airlines were on time, the Jet Airways Chandigarh-Delhi flight was cancelled.

The Jet Airways Chandigarh-Mumbai flight was late by over an hour. Officials of the Meteorological department, have predicted that such conditions are likely to continue in the next few days too.