The Delhi government recently gave a directive, as reported by PTI, to both private and government-aided schools. It’s about closing down for summer vacations immediately if they haven’t already done so, especially considering the intense heatwave.
The Directorate of Education sent out a circular stating that all schools are supposed to have their summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for this academic year. However, some schools seem to be ignoring this and are still open, which is why this reminder was issued.
Delhi Government Announces Summer Break
The Delhi government has instructed all private schools in the city to start their summer vacation early, until June 30, due to the intense heatwave. This decision aims to ensure the well-being of students and staff during the hot weather.
According to a circular from the Delhi government, all Department of Education (DoE) schools are required to observe summer vacation from May 11 to June 30 for the academic year 2024-25. However, some privately-run schools are still open despite the ongoing heatwave conditions. These schools are now urged to close immediately for the summer break.
This year, the city has extended the summer break to a total of 50 days to accommodate the high temperatures and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.
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Heatwaves in Delhi
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi is expected to experience a hotter summer than usual.
Today, Delhi residents woke up to a warm Monday morning, with the temperature already at 29.2 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees higher than the usual for this time of year. It’s predicted that the temperature could climb up to 45 degrees Celsius.
This heat isn’t just affecting Delhi; it’s also impacting nearby states. In response, many of them have decided to start summer holidays early.
This decision is to make sure students stay safe during the extreme heat, which can be dangerous to health.
School Closures and Summer Breaks Across States
The weather forecast warns of intense heatwaves hitting several states from May 18 onwards, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Due to soaring temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius in certain areas, the Directorate of School Education in Haryana has instructed all educational institutions to shut down. A heightened alert for severe heatwaves has been issued for southern Punjab and Haryana. Schools are set to resume on July 1, 2024.
In Punjab, schools will observe a summer vacation from June 1 to June 30, 2024. Similarly, the Rajasthan government has declared a summer break for all schools, prohibiting extra classes between May 17 and June 30.
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Delhi Government Announces Summer Break FAQs
Q.1. Why did the Delhi government instruct schools to start summer vacations early?
Ans. The directive aims to safeguard the well-being of students and staff amidst the intense heatwave, ensuring their safety during hot weather conditions.
Q.2. What are the dates for summer vacations in Delhi schools this year?
Ans. According to the Delhi government’s circular, summer vacations for Department of Education (DoE) schools are scheduled from May 11 to June 30 for the academic year 2024-25.
Q.3. Why are some privately-run schools still open despite the heatwave?
Ans. Despite the ongoing heatwave conditions, some privately-run schools are still open, prompting the Delhi government to issue a reminder for immediate closure to ensure compliance with the safety directive.
Q.4. How long is the summer break extended in Delhi this year?
Ans. This year, the summer break in Delhi has been extended to a total of 50 days, accommodating the high temperatures and prioritizing the safety and comfort of students and staff.
Q.5. Which states are affected by the intense heatwaves, and what measures are being taken?
Ans. Several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, are affected by intense heatwaves. Measures such as school closures and summer breaks have been implemented to protect individuals from the extreme heat.