Chandigarh schools to close by noon as IMD issues red alert for heatwave

Schools have also been asked to avoid morning assemblies. “The morning assembly or special programmes in schools may be avoided and if essential may be conducted in covered areas or classrooms with reduced timing. Sports/other outdoor activities which expose students directly to the sunlight and strenuous physical activity may be avoided,” the order further stated.

The UT administration has directed schools to arrange sufficient drinking water and ORS sachets. In view of the possibility of food getting spoiled quickly owing to the excessive heat, schools have also been told to serve freshly cooked food under the PM POSHAN scheme.

Meanwhile, HPS Brar, Director, School Education (Chandigarh), said the schools have been directed to ring the ‘water bell’ thrice.

“The ‘water bell’ will be rung at 8.30 am, 10 am and 11 am daily. This bell will serve as a reminder for children and teachers to drink water to remain hydrated,” Brar said.

The temperature in Chandigarh is expected to touch 46 degree Celsius in the next three days, while in Punjab and Haryana, it is set to reach 47 degree Celsius.

The highest temperature recorded in Chandigarh on Saturday was 43.7 degree Celsius, compared to 44.5 degree Celsius on Friday. Haryana’s Sirsa already crossed 47.2 degree Celsius on Saturday, while Samarala in Punjab crossed 46 degree Celsius.

The India Meteorological Department has also issued an advisory asking people to avoid outdoor activities from noon to 4 pm.