Government-run and private schools in Guwahati are set to resume operations from Wednesday, January 7, following a week-long closure. The reopening comes despite the continued grip of severe cold weather conditions across the region. To safeguard students, authorities have implemented a significant revision in daily school hours, delaying the start of classes by one hour for the upcoming week.
Revised Schedule to Combat the Chill
The directive, officially issued on Tuesday by Kamrup (Metro) Inspector of Schools, Dipika Choudhary, mandates the new timings for all categories of educational institutions. This includes government, provincialised, and private schools within the Kamrup (Metro) district, which encompasses Guwahati city. The order is effective from January 7 to January 13.
The decision was taken in view of the prevailing cold wave and prioritises the health and safety of students. The directive explicitly states it follows directions received from the District Commissioner of Kamrup Metro. As per the revised schedule, all classes will now commence at 10:00 AM instead of the usual time.
Breakdown of New School Hours
The adjusted timings vary according to the level of schooling:
- Primary Schools: Will function from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM.
- Upper Primary Schools: Will operate from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Secondary and Senior Secondary Schools: Will hold classes from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
This one-hour delay is intended to provide substantial relief to students during the coldest part of the morning. The directive sternly warns heads of institutions to strictly comply, stating that "any deviation from this order shall be viewed seriously." It was issued in the interest of public safety and student welfare.
Weather Conditions and Context
The administrative move is a direct response to the persistent cold weather. On Wednesday, Guwahati recorded a minimum temperature of 14°C and a maximum of 21.7°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast predicted morning fog or mist, with a partly cloudy sky likely throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to remain largely unchanged in Guwahati and its neighbouring areas.
It is noteworthy that most private schools in the district were already closed for their scheduled winter break over the past week. The new order ensures a unified approach as all schools reopen simultaneously. The directive also clarified that all pre-scheduled examinations would be conducted as per earlier notifications, unaffected by the change in regular class timings.
Ensuring Academic Continuity
The week-long closure and subsequent adjustment in hours reflect a balancing act between academic continuity and student well-being. By pushing back the start time, authorities aim to mitigate health risks associated with exposure to the biting cold, especially for younger children travelling to school early in the day. This proactive measure highlights the administration's focus on adapting to environmental challenges while keeping the education process on track.
