Heatwave: Govt bans school outdoor activities

SHILLONG, April 26: Amid an ongoing heatwave, the state government on Friday directed educational institutes across the state not to organise sports or any outdoor activities to avoid the ill effect of the heatwave on children.
Director of School Education & Literacy, Swapnil Tembe said the advisory was issued to ensure the safety and well-being of students amid the heatwave which is affecting the entire state, especially in the plains of Garo Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts.
“In light of this, schools are hereby directed not to organise any outdoor activities or sports in case the area is impacted by severe heatwave and also during any future instances of heat waves,” Tembe said in the order on Friday.
He also directed that adequate hydration facilities must be made available on the school premises to ensure that all students stay hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals.
The official also directed that ORS/lemon water be made available in case students face dehydration while at the same time encouraging students to bring a water bottle with them. Tembe said that prolonged exposure to heat especially between noon and 3 pm should be avoided and students should use caps or umbrellas while travelling to and from school. (PTI)