Dibrugarh schools plan early start to cope with heat

Dibrugarh: Owing to the unprecedented heat wave in Assam, the Dibrugarh district administration on Saturday changed school timings for all institutions affiliated to AHSEC, SEBA, ISCE and CBSE. The decision comes after the district recorded a maximum temperature of 38.0°C on Thursday, making it the highest temperature, ever recorded, in September.
Classes for lower primary schools will start at 7.30am and conclude by 12pm, while middle english schools (MES) will operate from 7.30am to 12.30pm.High schools and higher secondary schools will follow a schedule from 7.30am to 1pm.
“The health of our students is main priority. By adjusting the timings, we hope to minimise their exposure to the harsh afternoon sun,” inspector of schools and district elementary education officer, Samiron Bora, said.
According to the guidelines, schools have been asked to hold assemblies inside classrooms and reduce their duration. The students have been advised to forgo their waistcoats and ties, while opting for slippers or sandals as their preferred choice of footwear.
Additionally, schools have been asked to ensure that fans should be operational and classrooms adequately ventilated. In case of power outages, alternative sources must be arranged. Students have been advised to remain hydrated throughout the day to prevent any adverse effect of the heat.