Odisha Govt Directs Colleges to Shift Class Timings Amid Heat Wave Alert

Bhubaneswar: With the summer heat wave approaching, the Odisha government has instructed all higher education institutions to conduct classes and examinations during morning hours to protect students and faculty from extreme temperatures.

The Higher Education Department has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to universities and degree colleges, outlining preventive measures to mitigate heat-related risks.

Key Directives in the SOP:

• Rescheduling of Classes and Exams: Classes and examinations will be shifted to morning hours to minimize exposure to extreme heat.
• Restriction on Outdoor Activities: Outdoor events and physical activities will be limited to afternoon sessions.
• Provision of Drinking Water and ORS: Colleges must ensure adequate drinking water supply and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) for students and staff.
• Maintenance of Water Facilities: Tube wells and water pumps will be repaired as needed to ensure uninterrupted water availability.
• Availability of First Aid Facilities: Colleges and examination centers must have first aid facilities ready for heat-related emergencies.
• Student Awareness Initiatives: Institutional heads are responsible for sensitizing students on precautionary measures to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.