Decision on summer vacation of schools in next two days: Odisha Minister

A significant decision regarding the rescheduling of summer vacation for Odisha schools is anticipated within the next two days. Revenue and Disaster Management department has put forward a proposal to the Chief Minister to consider advancing the holiday date to a time before May 6, in view of the heat wave.

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This information was shared by Minister Suresh Pujari on Tuesday.

This is what Minister Pujari said

“We have already issued directives regarding the steps to be taken by the Revenue and Disaster Management department. Implementation of orders would be done starting from morning classes of schools and colleges up to the morning shift of government offices. The timing of Anganwadi centres, which were previously during mid-day hours, was changed to morning hours between 7.00 AM and 8.30 AM,” the Revenue Minister said.

“In the process and keeping in mind the rising temperature, I had a discussion today with the Principal Secretaries of different departments. We are planning to close the schools coming under the School and Mass Education department till May 6, and it is likely to get the approval of the Chief Minister in a day or two,” the Revenue Minister stated.

"Regarding the holiday rescheduling for higher education institutions, I have also asked the Higher Education Principal Secretary to come for a meeting in the evening. We will hold the meeting with the Chief Minister in view of the heat wave,” the Revenue Minister added.

Odisha is witnessing an unprecedented heat wave, with day temperatures climbing above 45°C for the first time this year, on Monday. Jharsuguda witnessed the highest temperature at 45.4°C.

Sambalpur experienced a searing 43°C yesterday, followed closely by Hirakud at 42.4°C and Rourkela at 42°C. Temperature readings in Keonjhar reached 38.3°C, with Chandbali recording 38.2°C and Balasore at 37°C. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, recorded a relatively lower but still sweltering temperature of 36°C.

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The situation has led to heightened concerns over climate patterns and public health in the State, as residents brace for continued high temperatures.