Odisha Schools to Operate Morning Hours Amid Heatwave Concerns
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced revised school timings for all government, aided, and private institutions across the state.
Effective from April 2, 2026, classes will run from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM until the commencement of summer vacation.
The decision, issued by Dr N. Thirumala Naik, IAS, Commissioner‑cum‑Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, aims to safeguard students from the rising summer temperatures.
District Collectors have been authorised to make further adjustments depending on local weather conditions.
Schools have been directed to implement heat‑mitigation measures, including ensuring the availability of drinking water, repairing tube wells, introducing a daily “water bell” for hydration breaks, stocking ORS packets, restricting outdoor activities, and encouraging parents to send water bottles with children.
Teachers are also instructed to educate students on heatwave precautions.
The directive has been circulated to all Collectors, Directors, and education authorities for immediate compliance, underscoring the government’s proactive approach to student safety during extreme weather conditions.
