Patna: The scorching heat in Bihar has reached unprecedented levels, with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees in several districts of the state. Aurangabad recorded a temperature above 48 degrees, while Gaya experienced temperatures above 47 degrees. In response to the severe heatwave, the Chief Minister has ordered the closure of government schools from May 30 to June 8. This decision was communicated through an official order issued by Chief Secretary Brajesh Mehrotra, following the instructions of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. However, it has now been clarified that this closure only applies to students who are not attending school. Unfortunately, teachers are not exempted from coming to school and will be required to continue their duties.
It is important to note that the Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave alert for Bihar for the next two days. Despite this, the closure of schools has been modified based on discussions between the Chief Secretary and KK Pathak. As a result, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Education Department, KK Pathak, has agreed to only suspend teaching activities, while teachers are still expected to report to school as usual. The relief granted in the order is solely for the students, and all District Education Officers have been instructed accordingly by KK Pathak.
Teachers are angry with KK Pathak’s order
It has been reported that the letter was sent to all District Magistrates following a discussion with KK Pathak. According to this directive, teachers are expected to resume their duties at school as usual, while officers will conduct daily inspections. However, teachers are becoming increasingly frustrated due to the lack of leave being granted. The teachers’ union has questioned whether the teachers’ well-being is being considered amidst the heat wave. If there are no students present at the schools, the necessity of calling in the teachers is being questioned. The teachers are requesting assistance from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to address the concerns of the teaching staff.
Change in timing till class 8th
It is important to inform you that previously, KK Pathak, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Education Department, made adjustments to the school timings for students in grades 1 to 8. The Chief Minister directed Chief Secretary Brajesh Mehrotra to address the alarming situation caused by the intense heat and heat wave in the state. In light of the current circumstances, it is crucial to take necessary measures to ensure the well-being of school children by considering the closure of schools as deemed necessary. This will help safeguard their health and prevent any adverse effects.
Governor also spoke to the chief secretary
CM Nitish Kumar instructed the Chief Secretary to convene a meeting of the Crisis Management Group and oversee additional essential measures in the present situation. Previously, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar conversed with the state’s Chief Secretary via telephone regarding the news of school children becoming unwell from the intense heat. Subsequently, an order to shut down schools was issued, which has now been revised.
More than 100 children fainted in Bihar schools
It is important to inform you that amidst the scorching heat, classes were being conducted in government schools in Bihar. Over 100 children fainted in schools due to the extreme heat in over 10 districts on Wednesday. Several of them are currently receiving medical treatment in various hospitals. The temperature in the districts where the children fell ill has exceeded 45 degrees. Following the incident, parents expressed their anger.