Govt revises school timings amid heatwave; DMs empowered to shut schools

Patna: In view of the intense heatwave sweeping across the state, the education department has revised school timings for govt institutions, while authorising district magistrates (DMs) to alter schedules or order closures depending on local weather conditions.As per the directive, all primary, secondary and higher secondary govt schools will function from 6.30am to 12.30pm till June 30. The move aims to safeguard students from prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.Director of secondary education Sajjan R on Monday issued instructions to divisional commissioners, district education officers and other officials to ensure strict implementation of the revised timetable across schools.The order, effective from June 22 to June 30, has been issued keeping in mind the severe summer heat and prevailing heatwave conditions in several districts.At the same time, the department has granted flexibility to district administrations. District magistrates have been empowered to review the situation locally and modify school timings further or even order temporary closure of schools if weather conditions deteriorate.Officials said the decentralised decision-making will help respond swiftly to fluctuating temperatures and ensure student safety remains the top priority.