Patna, Dec. 19 -- As a cold wave grips northern India and temperatures drop, the Patna District Magistrate on Friday issued orders mandating that all schools remain open only from 9 am to 4.30 pm. However, the notification added that classes with board and pre-board examinations will continue to follow their usual schedules.

The orders will remain in effect from December 19 to 25, the notification read.

This comes as cold weather has enveloped several parts of North India, including Bihar's neighbouring Uttar Pradesh and the national capital. Residents have reported low visibility, difficulty with everyday chores, and extreme weather conditions.

The national capital, Delhi, woke up to a thick blanket of fog across the city, with poor a...