Delhi heatwave: Rekha Gupta orders schools to submit safety report by May 2
With temperatures rising sharply across the capital, the Delhi government has stepped up its response to safeguard schoolchildren from heat-related risks. Authorities have now issued stricter compliance requirements for schools as part of the ongoing heatwave preparedness plan.
As Delhi prepares for a further rise in temperatures, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has issued a fresh directive aimed at strengthening heatwave preparedness in schools. The move comes amid an IMD yellow alert warning of intensifying heat conditions across the capital.
In a statement on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said all schools government, aided, and private must submit a compliance report to the Directorate of Education by May 2. The report must confirm adherence to the India Meteorological Department’s heatwave safety guidelines.
She emphasised that student safety remains a top priority, adding that parents facing any concerns regarding school arrangements can escalate issues to the district magistrate if required.
SCHOOLS ASKED TO STRENGTHEN HEAT SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Under the updated instructions, schools have been directed to ensure essential safety arrangements are in place, including uninterrupted access to safe drinking water and the appointment of nodal officers to monitor heat-related precautions.
Institutions have also been instructed to restructure daily routines to reduce heat exposure. Outdoor assemblies are to be shortened or conducted indoors, while all outdoor academic or physical activities have been suspended during the heatwave period.
A “water bell” system has been introduced, prompting regular hydration breaks every 45 to 60 minutes to prevent dehydration among students.
CLASSROOM AWARENESS AND STUDENT MONITORING MEASURES INTRODUCED
Beyond infrastructure changes, schools are being asked to actively educate students on heat stress management. This includes short awareness sessions on identifying early symptoms of heat-related illness and basic first-aid responses.
To enhance monitoring, a buddy system has been introduced where students are paired to help identify signs of fatigue or dehydration among peers during school hours.
Additionally, schools have been directed to share daily heat advisories with parents through WhatsApp groups and display precautionary material prominently across campus spaces such as corridors and classrooms.
PARENTS URGED TO COOPERATE AS ACCOUNTABILITY TIGHTENS
The government has also appealed to parents to take precautionary steps, advising them to send children in light, breathable cotton clothing and maintain regular communication with schools.
Officials have made it clear that this year’s guidelines carry an added layer of accountability, with schools required not only to acknowledge instructions but also to demonstrate active compliance through the May 2 submission deadline.