Bhubaneswar, Apr 3: With the mercury soaring, the Odisha government has taken proactive measures to protect schoolchildren from the adverse effects of the ongoing heatwave. Effective April 2, all schools and Anganwadi centres in the state will operate earlier in the day to mitigate heat-related risks.

Under the revised schedule, schools now conduct classes in the morning, allowing students to return home before peak afternoon temperatures. The school timing for Class-I to CIass-XII has been rescheduled from 6 30 am to 10.30 am.

Meanwhile, Anganwadi centres — crucial for child care and nutrition — are functioning from 7 am to 9 am, instead of the usual 9 am to 2 pm to ensure children receive necessary support without prolonged exposure to the scorching heat.

This decision comes as Odisha experiences unusually high temperatures, prompting health and safety concerns for young students. The early class timings aim to reduce heatstroke incidents and dehydration, ensuring students can learn in a safer environment. Parents and teachers have largely welcomed the move, acknowledging its necessity during extreme weather conditions.

Officials urge the public to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun. Health advisories, including recommendations to wear light clothing and carry water bottles, have been circulated to further mitigate the impact of the heatwave.

As Odisha battles rising temperatures, the revised school schedule stands as a crucial step in protecting children and ensuring uninterrupted education.

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