A strong heatwave has gripped Jammu and Kashmir, with Srinagar recording its third-highest temperature ever in May, leading to changes in school timings by the government.
On Thursday, the summer capital reached 34.4 degrees Celsius, breaking records.
According to weather experts, this is the third-highest temperature ever recorded in Srinagar for May in the last 133 years.
The earlier record was 34.3 degrees Celsius, noted on May 28, 1971.
The high temperatures have caused health problems, especially for children.
Education Minister Sakina Ittoo said she received calls from parents saying their children felt uncomfortable during morning assemblies.
“I have asked the Education Department to change school timings. Summer holidays will be announced at the right time,” she said.
Due to this, the School Education Department announced new timings starting Monday.
Schools within municipal areas will now run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., while schools outside municipal limits will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Also read
- Rahul Gandhi meets victims of Pakistani shelling in J&K's Poonch
- Operation Sindoor aftermath: Rahul Gandhi, Congress leaders to visit J&K's Poonch tomorrow
- J&K: Operation Trashi enters day 2, security forces intensify search to neutralise terrorists
- J&K: Soldier injured in Kishtwar encounter dies; gunfight still on
The Meteorological Department has warned that the heatwave will continue for another four days.
A slight drop in temperature is expected after 27 May. Till then, the weather will remain dry and hot across the region.
Doctors and officials have advised people to avoid going out during the peak hours of the heat during the day, drink plenty of water, and stay safe in the heat.
The rising heat has also put pressure on electricity and water supply, and there are growing concerns for children, the elderly, and those who work outdoors. Many are now hoping for relief as temperatures reach dangerous levels.
The temperature rise comes in the wake of hostilities between India and Pakistan after Operation Sindoor by the Indian armed forces against the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 25 tourists and one local horse ride operator were killed on April 22. India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire after four days of military confrontation.
