Quake aftermath: Bihar schools go on early vacation

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday ordered the closure of all schools from Wednesday in view of a massive tremors that struck the state and caused loss of life and property.

"The summer vacation is scheduled to start in schools in the next 2-3 days. So I have ordered the education department to advance it and declare summer vacation from Wednesday in view of earthquake fear and possibility of more aftershocks," Kumar told media persons.

He said many children were in schools when the quake rocked the state on Tuesday afternoon. In this scenario, parents would be worried if their children were to attend school in the coming days.

"Safety of children is important for us," he said.

Advising people not to panic, Nitish appealed to them to stay alert over the next 48 hours.

"Do not pay attention to rumours either on social media or on phones," he added.