Major landslide near colonial-era St Edward’s School in Shimla, school shut for 2 days

Officials said a large portion of land opposite the school collapsed, creating a potential threat to the safety of students, teachers, and nearby residents.

Anupam Kashyap, Deputy Commissioner of Shimla, in an order issued under Section 30 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, confirmed the precautionary closure. “As per the order of the Deputy Commissioner, in view of the heavy landslide near St Edward’s School in Shimla, the school will remain closed on September 19 and 20, 2025, for safety reasons,” Kashyap said.

The order clarified that teaching and administrative staff are exempted from physically attending school but directed the management to ensure online classes continue during the two-day closure. It also warned that any violation or non-compliance with the directive would invite strict action under Section 51 of the Disaster Management Act.

Founded in 1925 by the Irish Christian Brothers, St Edward’s School has played a significant role in Shimla’s educational and cultural history. Known for its imposing red-brick colonial architecture surrounded by deodar trees, the school has, for a century, been regarded as a premier institution for boys in Himachal Pradesh. It is affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) and provides education from kindergarten to Class 12.

The Himland slope, where the institution is located, has long been identified as vulnerable to landslides during prolonged monsoon spells. Officials said monitoring will continue over the weekend to assess further risks.

Meanwhile, residents in the vicinity have been advised to remain cautious as heavy rainfall persists across Shimla.

Shimla, hit by heavy rainfall in the past few days, witnessed half a dozen landslides, including one major incident where a dozen vehicles were buried under debris near Himland.