Parents call for reduced work hours in schools

Srinagar, July 22: Amid persistent heatwave in Kashmir, the parents of young students have appealed to the authorities for a reduction in work hours for schools.

They said that the move could give their wards some respite amid the heatwave.

Earlier, the parents had pushed authorities for an extension of summer vacations in Kashmir.

They said that their requests were left unheard.

The parents said that a reduction in class work hours could bring some respite.

“There is no letup in the heatwave, and it gets really difficult for our children to cope. The school authorities should give relaxation to children till the heatwave persists. It is not like we are asking for vacation but one to two-hour relaxation which can really help,” said Tahira Khan, a parent.

The parents said that young students were facing a tough time and were finding it hard to cope.

They said that they travel in school buses and vans amid heatwave conditions, which become unbearable for them in the afternoon sun.

“In the afternoon, it gets unbearable for our kids. There have been several cases in which children have fainted and had other issues during summers. Amid such a situation, a minor relaxation in classwork hours can mean a lot,” said another parent.

The parents said that not every school had up-to-the-mark facilities and amid such issues, relaxation could help.

Doctors have also advised caution amid the heatwave and asked people to take all precautions.

HOD, Neonatology and Pediatrics, Noora Hospital, Dr Tanveer Bashir said that during the heatwave, children should take all precautionary measures.

“In addition to that school authorities and parents should ensure that students are keeping themselves hydrated. Reduced work hours can help students. The students leave school in the afternoon, which is the peak of temperature, and there is no AC in school buses. Schools should also prioritise indoor games these days. These precautions can help,” Bashir said.