Chandigarh Schools Adjust Timings Due to Cold Wave

As North India continues to experience a biting cold spell and dense fog, authorities across various states have revised school timings and implemented measures to safeguard students and staff. In Chandigarh, where temperatures have dropped significantly, school timings have been adjusted to address safety and convenience amidst the harsh weather conditions. Here is a detailed look at the revised timings and the impact of the ongoing cold wave.

1. Revised School Timings in Chandigarh

The Chandigarh Administration has announced changes in school schedules for government, government-aided, and recognised private schools in response to the persistent cold spell.

• Physical classes for students up to Class 8 have been suspended.
• Online classes for these grades will begin at 9 am to ensure academic continuity.
• For Classes 9 to 12, physical classes will start at 9:30 am and conclude by 3:30 pm.

2. Special Provisions for Pre-Board Classes

Schools conducting pre-board classes have been allowed to open by 9 am. This measure ensures that students preparing for crucial examinations are not disrupted. The timings for staff in these schools can be adjusted as needed.

3. Impact of Weather on Routine Activities

Chandigarh's minimum temperature dropped to 9 degrees Celsius on Saturday, as reported by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

• The dense fog has severely reduced visibility, causing disruptions in daily life.
• Flight operations at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport have been affected, with two flights—one to Mumbai and another to Delhi—cancelled so far.

4. Similar Measures in Uttar Pradesh

The cold wave is not confined to Chandigarh. Uttar Pradesh has also seen a significant dip in temperatures, with Kanpur recording a minimum of 9 degrees Celsius and Prayagraj dropping to 11 degrees Celsius.

• Residents in Prayagraj reported minimal visibility due to thick fog, further compounding challenges in daily commutes.

5. Ayodhya Faces Weather Woes

In Ayodhya, the minimum temperature was recorded at 12.6 degrees Celsius.

• A dense fog blanket reduced visibility to 50 metres, leading to traffic disruptions.
• Locals expressed concerns over the chilling conditions and the associated impact on routine activities.

6. Challenges Faced by Daily Wage Workers

The severe cold has hit daily wage workers the hardest. Sanjay Kumar Rathore, a local from Chandigarh, expressed the challenges of working in the harsh weather.

• "We are not able to work properly due to the cold. Being poor, we have no choice but to continue working in these conditions," Rathore said.

7. Bonfires to Beat the Cold

Visuals from various parts of North India, including Chandigarh and Prayagraj, show people huddled around bonfires in woollen clothes to keep warm.

• Local authorities and NGOs have been working to provide relief by distributing blankets and organising community bonfires.

8. IMD Issues Weather Alerts

The IMD has issued an alert for a fresh western disturbance expected to hit Northwest India from January 10 to 12.

• This could bring more fog and a further dip in temperatures.
• Residents and authorities are advised to take precautions and stay updated on weather conditions.

9. Safety Measures for Students and Staff

The changes in school timings aim to ensure the safety of students and staff.

• Parents have been advised to ensure children dress warmly and follow school guidelines.
• Teachers and administrative staff have adjusted their schedules to accommodate the new timings.

10. Authorities Remain Vigilant

Local governments across North India are closely monitoring the situation.

• Additional measures, such as further revisions in school timings and distribution of winter essentials, are being considered.
• Emergency services are on standby to address any weather-related challenges.

Conclusion

The ongoing cold wave has brought significant disruptions to life in North India. Authorities in Chandigarh and other parts of the region have taken proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of students, residents, and workers. As the weather patterns continue to evolve, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.