Jamshedpur schools to remain shut till June 17 due to heat wave

Ranchi / Jamshedpur, June 14: The School Education and Literacy Department of Jharkhand under the guidance of Secretary K Ravi Kumar, on Wednesday (June 14) issued order mandating the closure of all government, non-government aided/unaided (including minority), and private schools across the state until June 17 (upto class 8) due to intense heat prevailing in Jharkhand. For students of std 9 to 12 the classes will resume from Thursday, June 15.

The decision aims to ensure the safety and well-being of young students during the intense heat wave period.

The order specifies that all Jharkhand schools upto class 8 will remain closed until June 17, and further decisions regarding compensation for educational losses during this period will be communicated separately.

“The scorching temperatures have made it challenging for students to endure the heat, and the local education department, in consultation with relevant authorities, has deemed it necessary to extend the break for these grade levels. The closure will provide respite to students, allowing them to stay indoors and avoid potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures,” said an official.

However, there is a separate arrangement for students in classes 9 to 12. Regular classes for these higher grades will resume from June 15, considering the importance of academic continuity and board exam preparations. It is crucial for students in these grades to follow the precautionary measures advised by the authorities, such as staying hydrated and taking necessary breaks during peak heat hours.

A communique from Loyola School, said: “As per the directive of the District Education Department, the school will remain closed for classes KG to Std VIII till 17 June. For classes IX to XII, school will reopen from tomorrow 15 June. Timings will be from 6.30 to 10.35 am.

Earlier, Jharkhand government ordered closure of schools from June 12 to 14 due to heat wave.

The development comes as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning stating that the ongoing heat wave is expected to persist in Jharkhand until June 17. The scorching temperatures have already been testing the resilience of the residents, and the prolonged heat wave is anticipated to further intensify the discomfort across the region.

According to the IMD’s forecast, the prevailing weather conditions indicate a continuation of the heat wave, with temperatures soaring above normal levels. Several areas have already been grappling with high mercury levels, affecting daily life and posing health risks to the population.

The IMD has advised people to take necessary precautions to cope with the persistent heat wave. It has urged citizens to stay indoors during peak hours, usually between 11 am and 4 pm, and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities to minimize exposure to the harsh weather conditions.