Due to the severe heatwave sweeping across many parts of India, several state governments have announced extended summer vacations or revised school timings to protect students from the scorching heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for multiple states, warning of extreme temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in some regions.
States That Have Extended Summer Vacations
Here is a state-wise list of the regions that have taken measures to adjust school schedules:
- Uttar Pradesh: The state government has extended summer vacations for all schools up to June 20. Earlier, the break was scheduled to end on June 15. The decision was taken after the IMD predicted a prolonged heatwave.
- Bihar: Schools will remain closed until June 25. The state education department issued a notification on April 25, citing the heatwave conditions. All government and private schools are covered under this order.
- Odisha: Summer vacations have been extended by two weeks, now ending on July 1. The state has also directed schools to postpone examinations if needed.
- West Bengal: The state has revised school timings to morning hours only, from 7 AM to 11 AM, until further notice. Additionally, all outdoor activities have been suspended.
- Jharkhand: Schools have been closed until June 30. The government has also advised parents to ensure children stay hydrated and avoid going out during peak heat hours.
- Haryana: The education department has extended summer break until July 5. Schools have been instructed to complete pending syllabus through online classes if possible.
- Punjab: Summer vacations have been extended by 10 days, now ending on June 28. The government has also banned outdoor assemblies and sports events.
- Rajasthan: Schools in Rajasthan will remain closed until July 10. The state has also issued guidelines for schools to ensure availability of drinking water and shade.
- Madhya Pradesh: The state has extended summer holidays until June 30. Schools have been asked to conduct online classes for students in grades 9 to 12.
- Delhi: The Delhi government has ordered all schools to remain closed until July 2. The decision was taken after the temperature crossed 44 degrees Celsius in the capital.
States That Have Revised School Timings
In addition to extended holidays, some states have revised school timings to avoid the afternoon heat:
- Maharashtra: Schools in Mumbai, Pune, and other cities have shifted to morning timings, from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The state has also advised schools to cancel afternoon sessions.
- Gujarat: The state government has directed all schools to operate from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Schools have also been asked to provide ORS packets to students.
- Karnataka: In Bengaluru and other districts, school timings have been changed to 8 AM to 12:30 PM. The state has also recommended that students wear light cotton clothes.
- Tamil Nadu: Schools in Tamil Nadu will now function from 8 AM to 12 PM. The state has also banned outdoor activities during the afternoon.
- Andhra Pradesh: The state has revised school timings to 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM. The government has also distributed water bottles in schools.
- Telangana: Schools in Telangana will operate from 8 AM to 12 PM. The state has also instructed schools to ensure availability of cool drinking water.
Advisory for Parents and Students
The education ministries of various states have issued advisories for parents and students during the heatwave:
- Ensure children drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks.
- Limit outdoor activities between 12 PM and 4 PM.
- Dress children in light, loose-fitting cotton clothes.
- Use umbrellas or caps when going out.
- Immediately consult a doctor if symptoms of heatstroke appear, such as dizziness, nausea, or headache.
The IMD has predicted that the heatwave may continue for another week. Parents are advised to stay updated with local news and school announcements for any further changes in schedules.
