Extend summer vacations

The Kashmir Valley is presently grappling with the intense heatwave conditions, surpassing the previous records of even seven decades, this making it urgent for the government to consider the extension in the ongoing summer vacations for the students. Srinagar and other parts of the region have continued to witness above normal temperatures, pushing daily life to the edge and putting vulnerable populations, especially children, at serious risk. These abnormal weather patterns in the mountainous place signals not only a break in historical norms but also a pressing public health concern. Daytime temperatures soaring beyond 37°C in Srinagar have become the new reality. The Valley’s infrastructure, both public and private, is simply not designed to cope with this level of heat. Most schools lack basic cooling facilities and extended exposure to such temperatures can lead to dehydration, heatstroke and long-term health complications, especially among young students. In this context, returning children to classrooms in early July, while the heatwave shows no signs of abating, is not only impractical but unsafe. Classrooms, often cramped and poorly ventilated, are no place for learning in these extreme conditions. Parents, too, are justifiably anxious about the well-being of their children, and many are calling on the administration to act swiftly and sensibly. This is not merely about comfort, but prioritizing health, safety and well-being in the face of an unfolding climate emergency. Extending the summer vacation by at least a week would be a proactive step, giving authorities time to monitor weather patterns and make necessary arrangements for a safer return to school. The education of our children is crucial, but not at the cost of their health. Extending the summer break is not a disruption, but a responsible adjustment in extraordinary circumstances.