In response to the severe cold wave gripping the region, the Madhubani district administration has taken a decisive step to protect students from the harsh winter conditions. District Magistrate Anand Sharma issued a formal directive on Thursday, imposing strict restrictions on school operating hours across the district.
Official Order to Shield Students from Biting Cold
The order, which came into immediate effect, mandates that all private and government schools, including pre-schools and anganwadi centres, must refrain from conducting any educational activities before 11:00 AM and after 3:30 PM. This measure has been implemented specifically to safeguard children's health during the prevailing period of extreme cold and falling temperatures.
District Magistrate Anand Sharma emphasized that the well-being of students is the administration's top priority. The restriction is designed to prevent young children from having to commute and attend classes during the coldest parts of the day, which can pose significant health risks.
Key Exemptions and Duration of the Order
However, recognizing the critical importance of academic milestones, the order includes a crucial exemption. Special classes and examinations being conducted for pre-board and board exams will not be bound by these timing restrictions. This ensures that students preparing for these crucial assessments are not adversely affected in their final preparations.
The directive is not permanent but is a temporary response to the weather crisis. The order will remain in force until December 25, after which the situation will be reviewed based on prevailing weather conditions. School authorities have been instructed to strictly comply with the new schedule.
Administration's Outreach to the Vulnerable
Beyond the school order, the district administration also extended its relief efforts to other sections of society struggling with the cold. In a late evening visit on Thursday, DM Anand Sharma personally visited a railway platform in Madhubani to distribute blankets among the poor and needy. This gesture underscores the administration's broader concern for all vulnerable citizens during the winter spell.
The combined actions of regulating school hours and providing direct aid highlight a proactive approach to governance during extreme weather events. Parents and school administrations have largely welcomed the move, acknowledging the necessity of prioritizing children's health amidst the challenging climatic conditions.
