Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has announced a half-day holiday for all schools and colleges on Wednesday, allowing students, teachers, and families time to prepare for Diwali celebrations.

This year, Diwali, the festival of lights, is widely celebrated on Thursday, October 31.

In addition to Thursday, the government has declared Friday, November 1, a holiday, granting a four-day break through the weekend.

This decision comes in response to requests from parents and government employees, aiming to ease travel arrangements for families heading to their hometowns.

Special buses and trains have been arranged from Chennai to other cities to accommodate the increased passenger flow.

A government statement confirmed that the half-day holiday on Wednesday was granted to facilitate Diwali travel and alleviate crowds. "For the welfare of students, parents, teachers, and employees traveling for Diwali, all educational institutions will close tomorrow afternoon," the statement said.

To compensate for the holiday, schools will operate on November 9, Saturday.

This Diwali break will be much remembered by students and teachers, who look forward to celebrate a long with family and friends.