As scorching temperatures sweep across various Indian states, educational authorities have taken proactive measures to safeguard students’ well-being. West Bengal and Odisha are among the states adjusting their academic calendars to account for the extreme heat, granting students an extended summer vacation.
West Bengal: Early Commencement of Summer Vacation In response to soaring temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the state, the West Bengal government has announced an early start to summer vacations for government and government-assisted schools. Originally slated to begin on May 6, the vacations will now kick off on April 22.
This decision aims to mitigate discomfort and health risks posed by the intense heatwave. Additionally, several private schools in the region have opted to extend vacations by approximately one week, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.
Odisha: Prolonged School Closure Similarly, Odisha has closed schools due to the sweltering heat, with vacations already underway and scheduled to last until April 20. High temperatures have prompted this precautionary measure to safeguard students’ health.
Weather Alerts and Safety Recommendations The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued specific alerts in response to the prevailing heatwave conditions:
- Orange Alert: East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Purulia, Jhargram, Bankura, West Bardhaman, East Bardhaman, and Birbhum districts in West Bengal are under an orange alert, signifying severe heatwave conditions.
- Yellow Alert: Murshidabad and Nadia districts in West Bengal are on a yellow alert, indicating slightly less severe but still potentially dangerous temperatures.
Authorities have advised residents, especially children and the elderly, to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and use adequate sun protection when venturing outside. Schools have been instructed to implement measures to keep the school environment cool and safe during operating hours.
Delhi: Extended Summer Holidays In the capital city of Delhi, summer holidays for the academic session of 2024-25 are set to commence from May 11 and continue until June 30, 2024. This grants students a 19-day vacation period within one month, as schools will remain closed for a total of 220 days during the session.
As the heatwave persists, educational institutions and authorities across states are prioritizing the health and safety of students, ensuring they have respite from the oppressive temperatures during the summer break.
