Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, March 17: In view of the rising temperature and possible occurrence of sunstrokes, the state government has decided to revise timings of the schools from April 1. Schools will now begin operating from 6:30am.
Midday meals will be provided at 10:30am after which schools will be closed for the day. Schools have also been asked not to remain open after 11am. It was decided to finish all ongoing annual examinations before March 31.
The government will also ensure provisions of drinking water and first-aid at schools till
March 31.
The next academic year will begin from April 2 whereas all schools have been asked to celebrate Utkal Divas April 1.
Heads of institutions have to ensure proper drinking water facilities at the schools, and if there is no such provision, the principals will encourage students to bring water bottles and umbrellas from their respective homes. Students will also not be forced to do any physical exercises.
The school and mass education department has also declared summer vacation dates to begin May 4. The orders were cleared by school and mass education minister Debi Prasad Mishra and secretary Usha Padhee and have been forwarded to schools.
Weather experts have warned of hotter days ahead. “The temperature will continue to make a steady rise especially in interior pockets of the state. The mercury might touch the 40°C in the next few days and the risk of sunstroke cannot be sidelined now,” said Sarat Sahu, Met director.
“Morning classes will be started from April 2 in all schools. Circulars have been issued to all schools – both private and government – across the state to ensure that schools open at 6.30 am and close by 10:30 am,” said Mishra. “The government has also asked concerned officials to make alternative arrangements for drinking water in schools which do not have tube-wells,” Mishra added.
