Daijiworld Media Network - Ranchi
Ranchi, Apr 20: In response to intense heatwave conditions sweeping across Jharkhand, the state government has revised school schedules to reduce exposure for students, while the health administration has issued a yellow alert and placed all districts on high alert.
As per an order issued by the Jharkhand School Education and Literacy Department, all government, government-aided, and private schools will now operate in morning shifts starting April 21.
Under the revised timings, classes from KG to Class 8 will run from 7:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., while Classes 9 to 12 will function from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Teachers and non-teaching staff in government schools will remain on campus until 1:00 p.m. to complete administrative and non-instructional duties.
Simultaneously, the Jharkhand Health Department has issued a yellow alert in view of rising temperatures, directing district administrations to stay alert and ensure preparedness for heat-related emergencies. Disaster Management and Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari has instructed officials to strengthen response systems across all districts.
According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures in nearly 10 districts are expected to remain between 40°C and 44°C, with a further rise of 3°C to 5°C likely in the coming days. Daltonganj recorded the highest temperature on Sunday at 43.9°C, while Ranchi hovered around 39°C.
Authorities have warned of continued heatwave conditions in several regions and advised residents to avoid outdoor exposure between 12 noon and 3 p.m. In some areas, there is also a possibility of strong winds and lightning activity.
Health officials have instructed hospitals and primary health centres to ensure adequate stocks of ORS, IV fluids, and essential medicines to handle heatstroke cases. Citizens experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness have been urged to seek immediate medical care.
District administrations have been asked to ensure the availability of drinking water, shaded rest areas, temporary shelters, and ambulance services. The public has also been advised to stay hydrated, avoid going out on an empty stomach, and wear light cotton clothing during peak heat hours.