Odisha issues heat wave SoP for colleges, universities as IMD predicts severe summer

With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a severe summer, the Odishagovernment has rolled out a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for heat wave management in colleges and universities across the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Higher Education Department said the measures are aimed at ensuring preparedness, minimising heat exposure and protecting the health and well-being of students, faculty and staff.

Rescheduling Of Classes And Activities

As part of the advisory, institutions have been encouraged to schedule or, wherever feasible, reschedule classes, internal assessments and examinations to morning hours in order to reduce exposure during peak heat periods. Outdoor academic engagements, sports and co-curricular activities are to be avoided during the afternoon. If such activities are unavoidable, they must be conducted during relatively cooler parts of the day with appropriate safeguards in place.

Water, ORS And First Aid Arrangements

Institutions have also been instructed to guarantee continuous access to safe drinking water at multiple locations on campus. Adequate supplies of oral rehydration salts (ORS) are to be stocked and made readily available in classrooms, hostels, examination centres and common areas. The SoP further calls for inspection and necessary repairs of tube wells, hand pumps and other drinking water facilities to prevent disruptions during the summer months.

Basic first aid arrangements must be kept ready to manage heat-related issues such as dehydration, dizziness and other medical emergencies. Authorities are required to designate responsible personnel to provide immediate assistance when required.

Heads of institutions have been directed to sensitise students and staff about precautionary measures, including staying hydrated, recognising early signs of heat exhaustion and following appropriate dos and don’ts during extreme weather. Parents and guardians may also be advised to ensure students carry drinking water while attending classes or examinations.

The directive has been issued to all public and private universities and degree colleges under the Higher Education Department for strict compliance.

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According to the IMD, temperatures are likely to rise significantly between March 6 and 12, with interior districts expected to record 36 to 38 degrees Celsius and other parts of the state 34 to 36 degrees Celsius.