Heatwave alert: Odisha govt mulls early summer break for schools

Bhubaneswar, April 22: Amid the intensifying heatwave conditions across Odisha, the state government is likely to reschedule the summer vacation for schools to safeguard students from extreme temperatures. A formal proposal recommending early closure of schools has been submitted to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, while addressing the media on Tuesday, said, “We have proposed closure of schools till May 6 as an initial precautionary measure. The final decision is expected to be taken by the Chief Minister within a day or two.”

He also mentioned that Anganwadi centres may be temporarily shut down if the heatwave worsens. In such a scenario, dry food will be delivered to children at their homes, as part of a contingency plan to ensure continued nutrition support.

The Revenue and Disaster Management Department has empowered district collectors to decide on school closures based on local weather conditions. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have also been issued for implementation.

Currently, schools are operating with morning classes from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, along with provisions for drinking water and ORS to help students stay safe and hydrated.