Srinagar: Amid a severe heatwave and public concern, Jammu and Kashmir’s Education Minister Sakina Itoo confirmed that all schools across the Kashmir Valley will reopen as scheduled on Tuesday, July 8, with revised timings and an added online learning component.
Dismissing speculation about an extension of the summer break, the minister stated, “The schools will reopen on Tuesday. All teaching and learning activities will resume as per the new time schedule.”
To cope with rising temperatures, school hours have been modified:
Municipal areas (Classes Primary to 12th): 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Rural/non-municipal areas: 8:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
The decision comes as Kashmir faces record-breaking heat, with Srinagar hitting 37.4°C on Saturday—its third-highest July temperature ever. The relentless heatwave has raised serious concerns about student health and safety.
Parents, educators, and health experts have criticized the move as “insensitive,” urging reconsideration due to risks like dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly in non-air-conditioned classrooms.
In response, the government has announced a blended learning model. After a one-hour rest period at home, students will attend two hours of online classes to reinforce the day’s lessons.
The Education Department stated the dual model aims to balance academic continuity with health precautions, reflecting a flexible and adaptive approach to education under extreme climate conditions.
