Odisha Govt to Begin Morning Classes in Schools from April 2 Due to Heat

The Odisha government has announced that all schools will conduct morning classes from April 2 due to rising temperatures and heatwave conditions. The decision aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students as temperatures are expected to soar in the coming weeks.  

Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that with ongoing school examinations concluding on March 27, regular classes will resume in the morning shift from April 2 to help students cope with the heat. 

He also stated that Anganwadi centres will operate from 7 AM to 9 AM during the summer. Minister mentioned that temperatures across the state have already begun rising earlier than usual, nearly a month ahead of the expected time.

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Odisha Govt Steps Up Heatwave Measures with Water, Power, and Safety Initiatives: 

People in Boudh, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Bolangir, and Sundargarh are facing heatwave conditions, while the coastal regions are experiencing high humidity. Considering the current situation, instructions have been issued to various departments and district collectors to take preventive measures against the heatwave, Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated. 

He added that district collectors have been given the authority to take necessary actions based on local requirements, without waiting for government approval. 

Pujari highlighted that in the last 10 years, over 330 people have lost their lives due to sunstroke, and officials have been directed to implement preventive measures to reduce such fatalities. 

To support people during extreme heat, drinking water facilities and rest shelters will be set up along busy roads. 

The Panchayati Raj Department has sanctioned Rs 300 crore for new tube wells in areas with water shortages, with additional funds to be provided if needed. 

Furthermore, the Energy Department has been instructed to prevent power cuts between 11 AM and 3 PM, as well as from 9 PM to 6 AM, to ensure a steady electricity supply during critical hours. 

IMD Issues Thunderstorm Warnings for Several Districts: 

In the past 24 hours, Bolangir town in western Odisha recorded a temperature of 41.1°C, making it the hottest place in the state. 

Nearby, Titlagarh registered 40.5°C, while Jharsuguda recorded 40.8°C and Sundargarh reported 40.1°C. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms with lightning and issued an orange warning for Bhadrak, Jharsuguda, Keonjhargarh, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Sundargarh districts on Thursday. Additionally, a yellow warning has been issued for Sambalpur, Deogarh, Boudh, Angul, and Jajpur districts. 

According to the IMD, these areas may experience thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and gusty winds in the coming days. 

(With Inputs from PTI) 

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