In a decisive move to safeguard students from the biting cold, the Dibrugarh district administration has officially postponed the morning start time for all schools. The new directive, which came into immediate effect on Tuesday, shifts the opening hour from 9 am to 10 am until further notice.
Official Order Cites Health and Safety Concerns
The formal order was issued by Samiron Bora, Inspector of Schools and District Elementary Education Officer cum District Mission Coordinator, Dibrugarh. It received the necessary approval from the District Commissioner. The directive is comprehensive, covering all government, provincialised, and private institutions, including lower primary, upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary schools across the district.
The primary reason cited is the prevailing severe cold conditions in the region and the associated risks to the health and safety of children. School closing times, however, will not be altered.
IMD Data Reveals Sustained Cold Snap
The decision is backed by concrete meteorological data pointing to a significant drop in temperatures. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dibrugarh district recorded notably low minimum temperatures in the first week of January 2026:
- 9.4°C on January 1
- 8.8°C on January 2
- 9.8°C on January 3
- 9.4°C on January 4
- 12.5°C on January 5
Authorities highlighted that early morning conditions are particularly harsh, with wind chill and dense fog in rural areas making it feel even colder. This raised substantial concerns among parents and officials about young children travelling during the coldest part of the day.
A Precautionary Step for Student Welfare
The one-hour delay is a precautionary measure designed to protect students from cold-related illnesses like flu and fever. By allowing children to begin their commute an hour later, the exposure to the most severe morning cold is reduced.
This consideration is especially crucial for families in rural parts of Dibrugarh, where many students walk long distances to reach their schools. The district education office aims to balance student welfare with minimal disruption to the academic schedule.
Officials have stated that they will continuously monitor the weather situation. The order may be extended or modified in the coming days based on fresh updates from the IMD and observed temperature trends.
