Bareilly district administration has ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 8 for three days from December 18 to 20. The decision comes as dense fog and a severe cold wave disrupt daily life. All government, aided, and private schools for Classes 1 to 8 will remain closed during this period. Basic Siksha Adhikari Dr. Vinita said the order came following directions from District Magistrate Avinash Singh. She also warned, "Strict action against any school found violating the order." Schools with pre-scheduled examinations may still conduct them as planned, she added. Bareilly and nearby areas have been covered by a thick blanket of fog, with no sunshine reported on December 17. Cold winds have intensified the chill, reduced visibility, slowed traffic, and increased accident risks during morning hours. Tuesday, December 16, recorded the coldest day in 10 years, with a maximum temperature of just 16.3 degrees Celsius. Additional District Magistrate Santosh Kumar Singh said the meteorological department has issued an orange alert for dense fog for the next three days. "Cold winds from the hills are likely to further aggravate the situation," he said. The administration has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and take special care of children and the elderly. No quick relief from the cold spell is expected soon.