Patna, May 12 (IANS) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday ordered closure of all schools from Wednesday in view of a massive earthquake that struck the state and caused heavy loss of life and property.

"I have ordered education department to declare an early summer vacation in all schools, government as well as private, in the state from May 13 instead of May 16 or 17 following a massive earthquake," Nitish Kumar told media here.

He said that all children were in schools when earthquake struck the state on Tuesday afternoon.

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

The chief minister appealed to people to be on alert in next 48 hours. He advised people not to panic.

"Do not pay much attention to rumours either on social media or mobile phones and be alert," he said.

Nitish Kumar said that state government will help all quake victims.

"The government will provide compensation of Rs.4 lakh to the family members of those killed," he said.