Amid Rising Summer Heat, Delhi Government Issues Advisory To Schools

The Delhi Government has issued a set of precautionary guidelines for Delhi schools to follow amidst the rising temperature and heat wave forecast.

Heat Wave Advisory To Delhi Schools (Representational Image)

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Following the heatwave prediction in the National Capital, the Delhi Government issued guidelines for schools, cautioning them to prepare for the upcoming heat wave. In its circular released on Wednesday, April 13, the Delhi Government directed schools recognized under the Directorate of Education to ensure that there is no student assembly organized in the afternoon shift. "As the daytime temperature in Delhi crosses more than 40 degrees Celsius during the summer season this is detrimental to the health of the children and adolescents studying in schools. The rise in temperature in NCR has led to the increased instance of heat-related illness," the Delhi government circular stated. 

"All Govt/Govt aided/Pvt unaided schools recognized under the Directorate of Education will have to ensure availability of drinking water to students in the schools. Students should be given water breaks during classes," an official circular mentioned. 

Furthermore, the Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi, has also asked schools to sensitize students to protect themselves from heat waves. ““Sensitize students to cover their heads (use an umbrella, hat, cap, towel and other traditional head gears) during direct exposure to sunlight) when coming or leaving the school). Schools will have to report to a nearby hospital or health facility if any student has a case of heat-related illness," the circular added. 

The Directorate further asked schools to report to a nearby hospital or health facility, in case a student faces heat-related illness. "Report any case of heat-related illness to a nearby health facility/hospital. All DDEs (deputy directors of education-districts/zones) are requested to ensure the compliance of the same," the circular said. 

"The rise in temperature in the national capital has led to increased instances of heat-related illnesses like exhaustion, dehydration, diarrhea and vomiting among citizens. Since children are one of the most vulnerable groups, all heads of schools under the are directed to adopt measures for circulating awareness and ensure protection of school children," the DoE circular added further. 

Notably, mercury levels in the national capital soared to 36.7 degree celsius on Wednesday, which is higher than the normal average temperature during the time of the year. On Tuesday, Delhi recorded its highest temperature of the season at 36.8 degree celsius. In the wake of the rising temperature, Meteorologists have hinted at temperatures rising above 40 degree celsius in parts of the city. 

(With inputs from agencies)