The Maharashtra government has announced a change in school timings due to the ongoing heatwave. This decision comes as temperatures continue to rise, posing health risks to students.
New school timings
To ensure student safety, schools will now start earlier in the morning and dismiss classes before peak afternoon heat. This change applies to both primary and secondary schools across the state.
Why the change?
The rising mercury levels have made it difficult for students to commute during extreme afternoon heat. Health experts have warned about dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses, prompting the state government to intervene.
Which schools are affected?
The new timing regulations are applicable to government, private, and aided schools in urban and rural areas. Schools have been directed to implement the changes immediately and provide necessary facilities like cool drinking water.
Other precautionary measures
Authorities have advised schools to:
Avoid outdoor activities during peak hours
Ensure proper ventilation in classrooms
Educate students about staying hydrated and heatwave safety
Will exams be rescheduled?
There is no official confirmation on exam rescheduling, but authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Schools have been asked to make arrangements to prevent heat-related issues during examinations.
Impact on students and parents
Many parents have welcomed the decision, citing concerns over their children’s well-being. However, some have raised concerns over adjusting their work schedules to match the new school timings.
What’s next?
The government will continue to assess the heatwave situation and make further adjustments if necessary. Parents and students are advised to stay updated through official school notifications.
With temperatures expected to remain high in the coming weeks, these changes aim to prioritise student health and well-being.
