Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 15: Rising temperatures across Maharashtra have prompted authorities to revise school timings to safeguard students’ health as heat levels continue to climb in several parts of the state.
Taking note of the situation, the district administration has decided that from Monday, March 16, schools will operate in the morning hours instead of the usual daytime schedule.
Several regions in the state recorded temperatures above 38°C on Saturday, making it difficult for students, especially those in primary schools, to attend afternoon classes. Many rural schools have tin-sheet roofs, which intensify the heat during the afternoon, making classrooms uncomfortable.
Considering these factors, schools that earlier functioned from 9:30 am to 4 pm will now operate from 7 am to 12:30 pm. Teachers’ associations had demanded a change in school timings due to the rising heat, and the administration responded positively to the request. Parents and students have welcomed the decision.
At the same time, the India Meteorological Department has forecast unstable weather conditions across the state. While parts of Konkan and north Maharashtra are experiencing heat wave conditions, other regions may witness unseasonal rainfall.
According to the weather department, Mumbai is likely to experience humid and uncomfortable conditions, though rainfall is not expected. Districts such as Satara, Sangli and Solapur have been issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and rainfall, while Pune may receive light showers over the next two to three days.
In the Vidarbha region, cities such as Akola and Amravati are witnessing heat wave conditions even as other parts of the region may receive rain accompanied by lightning. The IMD has also predicted the possibility of hailstorms in Vidarbha between March 17 and 20.
Similarly, Beed and Dharashiv districts in Marathwada have been warned of thunderstorms and gusty winds.
The fluctuating weather has increased concerns among farmers, as the combination of intense heat and the possibility of unseasonal rain and hailstorms could damage crops that are ready for harvest.
Agriculture officials have advised farmers to store harvested grain in safe places to avoid potential losses.