Agra schools closed due to cold

Agra, Jan 7 (IANS) District authorities have ordered the closure of all schools on Monday in view of the intense cold wave sweeping Agra region.

District Magistrate N.G. Ravi Kumar said a decision whether to extend the closure would be taken on Monday evening.

Official sources indicated that in view of the January 9 visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the administration could consider extending the school closure for another two days, to prevent traffic jams in the city.

The sky continues to remain cloudy but there has been no rain so far. The cold wind has forced people indoors. 

"Tourists at the Taj Mahal were seen shivering though most were wrapped in woollens. Early morning visibility was very low due to fog and misty conditions," said tourist guide Ved Gautam.

The minimum temperature on Saturday night was 9.9 degrees Celsius while the maximum hovered around 22. 

"But it was the icy cold wind that made life hell," said shopkeeper Bankey Lal of Johri Bazar.