Heat wave alert: Parents demand immediate end to outdoor School Assemblies as temperatures soar
KINS Desk
Srinagar, May 20 (KINS): Amid the ongoing heat wave sweeping across Kashmir, concerned parents are calling on school authorities to immediately suspend outdoor morning assemblies, citing serious health risks for children exposed to the scorching sun.
With temperatures in the Valley rising unusually early this season and a formal heat wave advisory issued by authorities, schools continuing to hold long outdoor assemblies have sparked widespread concern.
“It’s not just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous,” Shazia Mushtaq, a parent from Srinagar, told news agency KINS.
“Our children are made to stand for 30 minutes or more in open grounds, often without shade or water. In these temperatures, it’s a clear health hazard.”
“If there’s a heat wave advisory in place, why are schools risking the health of students?” asked Shabir Ahmad, another concerned parent. “Assemblies can be held indoors, in classrooms, or simply skipped during such extreme weather. There’s no excuse.”
Health professionals also warn against prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially for children. A top pediatrician at Children’s hospital emphasized that early signs of heatstroke can easily go unnoticed in such settings.
“Children are more vulnerable to dehydration and heat-related illnesses,” the doctor said, insisting not to be named. “Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or fatigue during outdoor exposure should be taken seriously. Schools must act responsibly.”
“It’s important that schools show sensitivity,” said a retired school principal. “Adapting to the weather and showing concern for students’ well-being is a basic duty.”
Parents are now urging the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) to issue clear directions to schools to halt outdoor gatherings immediately and explore alternatives until the heat wave subsides.(KINS)
