GUWAHATI: The Tinsukia district administration has revised school timings for all government, provincialised, government-aided and private schools from August 12 in view of the rising temperatures and the risk of heat-related illnesses among students. The revised schedule will remain in force until further notice.
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Under the new timings, Lower Primary schools will function from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Upper Primary schools from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, and High, Higher Secondary and Senior Secondary schools from 8:00 AM to 1:45 PM.
The revised timings were notified through separate orders issued on August 11 by the Regional Assam State School Education Board, Tinsukia District Circle, along with the District Elementary Education Officer and District Mission Coordinator of Samagra Shiksha. The orders were issued with the approval of the Tinsukia District Commissioner.
According to media repots, the administration has also directed schools to implement a series of precautionary measures to safeguard students from the heat. Morning assemblies should be conducted in shaded and well-ventilated areas such as verandahs or beneath trees. Students have been advised to carry water bottles and stay hydrated throughout the school day.
As an additional relief measure, students will be permitted to attend school without socks, shoes and neckties during the period of the revised schedule.
School authorities have been instructed to arrange immediate medical attention for any student showing symptoms of heat-related illness. Schools must also ensure proper ventilation in classrooms, verify that ceiling fans and electrical connections are functioning safely, and maintain clean toilets and urinals through regular cleaning.
The administration has further directed schools to arrange classroom seating to allow adequate airflow and ensure that students, parents, teachers and staff are informed about the revised timings and the heat safety guidelines.
The revised schedule will remain effective until weather conditions improve or fresh instructions are issued by the authorities.