The Kamrup Metropolitan district administration has ordered the closure of all schools for four days, starting September 24, to protect students from the extreme weather conditions. This decision follows multiple reports of students falling ill or fainting due to the oppressive heat. The region, including the state’s largest city, Guwahati, has been experiencing unusually high temperatures, with the mercury rising to 37.9 degrees Celsius.
The decision to shut down schools reflects the administration’s concern for the safety and well-being of students, who are vulnerable to the health risks posed by the soaring temperatures. "The safety and well-being of our students are paramount," a district official said, emphasizing that such conditions make it unsafe for children to attend school. This precautionary measure is expected to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensure students remain indoors during the worst of the heatwave.
The school closures affect all educational institutions in the Kamrup Metropolitan district, including Guwahati, which has been among the hardest hit by the heatwave. The closure will remain in effect from September 24 to September 27, after which the situation will be reassessed. Authorities are closely monitoring the weather forecast, which has brought some hope of relief, as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate rainfall across parts of Assam. In fact, Guwahati experienced moderate rainfall on Monday, giving residents a brief respite from the relentless heat.
Despite the forecast, the administration decided to err on the side of caution, ensuring that no student is exposed to the extreme conditions until there is a significant and sustained drop in temperatures. The closure of schools serves as an important reminder of the impact that extreme weather can have on daily life, especially for vulnerable groups like children. The district administration remains vigilant and is expected to provide updates on school reopenings based on upcoming weather conditions.
As per India Today report, parents and guardians are advised to keep their children indoors and hydrated during this period, as the region continues to grapple with unpredictable weather patterns. The temporary closure aims to prioritise student safety during this period of extreme heat.