that the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has mandated a revised school timetable effective Monday across all government and private schools in the district. The directive, issued by Deputy Commissioner Medha Rupam, aims to mitigate risks posed by extreme heatwaves, with temperatures recently exceeding 40°C in the National Capital Region. Under the new schedule, schools will conclude classes before midday heat intensifies, with educational sessions running from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM daily. This policy applies uniformly to all institutions, including CBSE, ICSE, UP Board, and other affiliated schools, irrespective of educational boards. Officials emphasized that the measure is precautionary, citing heightened dehydration and heatstroke risks during afternoon hours. Jalgaon Deputy Commissioner Rupam stated the decision follows mounting health concerns, particularly among students commuting home in sweltering conditions. The administration’s official notification, shared with all school principals, stresses mandatory adherence, with stern action promised for institutions operating beyond 12:00 PM. Schools are further instructed to provide chilled drinking water, suspend outdoor activities, and restrict physical education sessions during peak heat. Parents and teaching unions have expressed support for the move, acknowledging the need to safeguard children’s health. Dr. Anil Sharma, a pediatrician in the district, noted that children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, making such measures critical. While the current schedule will remain in effect until a subsequent order, officials hinted at potential further adjustments, including reduced school hours or hybrid online-offline models if temperatures worsen. The administration has also mandated stations may be closed post-noon, with violations leading to legal proceedings. This shift follows last week’s heatwave, which saw multiple heatstroke cases reported in Noida’s schools.
