Bhubaneswar: Schools in Odisha may commence morning classes sooner than usual this year, as the state is already experiencing a severe heatwave. A decision regarding the revised schedule is expected to be made soon, according to School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond. The minister stated that a decision will be taken after consulting with the Revenue and Disaster Management Department. This move is aimed at protecting students from the intense heat, which has been a concern in previous years. In the past, the state has taken measures to mitigate the impact of heatwaves on students. Last year, the teaching timings for students from Class I to XII were adjusted, with classes held from 7 am to 11:30 am in government, government-aided, and private schools. To ensure students' safety and well-being, principals and headmasters have been instructed to provide essential amenities, including safe drinking water on campus, providing Oral Rehydration Solution packets to prevent dehydration and making available other necessary items to combat the heat. Last year, District collectors had been empowered to make decisions regarding school opening dates in their respective districts, taking into account local weather conditions.
