Noida: Schools across Noida and Ghaziabad will now run from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm with immediate effect, after district magistrates in both cities revised timings amid a persistent heatwave that has pushed temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius across the region.
The directive covers institutions affiliated to CBSE, CISCE, IB, UP Board and other recognised boards. Officials said the decision was taken to shield students from peak afternoon heat and loo conditions, and asked schools to ensure strict compliance, ensure availability of drinking water and suspend all outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Earlier this week, both district administrations issued public heatwave advisories urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during peak hours and guard against heatstroke.
The India Meteorological Department forecast continued hot weather conditions over the coming days, despite the possibility of light rain on Monday night and Tuesday. Officials said the revised timings would remain in force until conditions improve or fresh orders were issued.
On Monday, IMD recorded a maximum temperature of 42.3 degrees Celsius, which was a departure of 3.3 degrees from normal. The day temperature is likely to remain around 42 degrees on Tuesday. Parents welcomed the move. “By the time school ends in the afternoon, the sun is too harsh. Children come back exhausted and complain of headaches. This is a much-needed step,” said Ritu Sharma, a parent from Sector 62, Noida.
Amit Verma, a parent from Ghaziabad, said younger children were especially at risk. “Small children cannot tolerate this kind of weather. Early closure is safer, particularly for those who travel by vans or buses,” he said.
Teachers, however, said that frequent changes in school timings could disrupt teaching pace and make syllabus completion difficult. “Such measures are necessary when weather conditions are severe and may lead to health risks. What is needed is a more consistent approach, avoiding closures or timing changes for minor weather fluctuations, like light rain, while reserving stricter steps for extreme conditions,” said a principal at a private school in Sector 44.
