Gujarat Schools Issue Heatwave Advisory Amid Rising Temperatures

Gujarat’s Primary Education Department has issued an advisory to district-level education officials and schools, urging immediate action to protect students from the intensifying summer heat. This directive, grounded in the Gujarat Heatwave Action Plan 2024, prioritizes preventive measures to ensure student safety during the upcoming heatwave season.

Key Preventive Measures

Schools are tasked with educating students about heatwave conditions and related health risks, such as dehydration and heat exhaustion. The advisory mandates:

• Raising awareness about safety precautions, including staying hydrated and avoiding direct sun exposure.
  
• Conducting additional classes to teach children how to recognize early signs of heatstroke and take protective steps.

Summer Guidelines

To minimize heat exposure, schools must:

• Suspend outdoor or open-air sessions in the afternoon, especially critical as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts temperatures up to 42°C in parts of Gujarat.
  
• Adjust schedules during peak summer months, with the option to start classes earlier and conclude before noon to avoid the hottest hours.

Also Read: Education Department Releases Heatwave Action Plan 2025

Oversight and Compliance

District Education Officers (DEOs) are responsible for ensuring these measures are implemented and must submit compliance reports to confirm adherence.

This advisory reflects a proactive approach to safeguard children, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, as Gujarat braces for relentless summer temperatures.