Demand for Morning Schools Gains Momentum Amid Rising Temperatures and Student Safety Concerns

Bhubaneswar, March 28: The heat is steadily increasing across the state. Temperatures in 18 cities have crossed 35 degrees Celsius. The sun becomes intense from as early as 10 a.m., and moderate heat is being felt during the day. The scorching weather is causing distress to young schoolchildren.
While the Labour Department has issued guidelines for workers in view of the heatwave, the School and Mass Education Department appears to have overlooked the concerns of small children. Teachers’ associations and parents have repeatedly written to the department demanding the introduction of morning school hours. However, there has been no response so far. Officials seem firm on continuing regular classes until April 2, after which the situation may be reviewed.
Meanwhile, the mercury has already crossed 39 degrees Celsius in some areas. On Tuesday, temperatures in 18 places across the state were above 35 degrees Celsius. Khordha recorded 35°C, while Bhubaneswar registered 35.6°C.
As children struggle to cope with the heat, teachers’ associations and parents have renewed their demand for morning classes. They say it is difficult to even imagine the conditions in which children are attending school. On Monday, the Labour Department issued a set of guidelines for workers in view of the heatwave, advising against outdoor activities during peak heat hours. However, beyond issuing this advisory, the department has taken no further steps.