The Kashmir Valley, known for its pleasant summers and serene climate, is currently witnessing an unprecedented spell of scorching heat. With temperatures crossing 35°C in Srinagar and even higher in districts like Anantnag, Pulwama, and Baramulla, this prolonged heatwave has pushed the region into an unfamiliar and uncomfortable zone. In light of this, it is imperative that the government of Jammu and Kashmir immediately extends the summer vacation for all schools in the Valley by at least one week.
Unlike other parts of the country, schools in Kashmir are not structurally equipped to handle such heat. Most government and private schools lack proper cooling facilities or insulation. Classrooms become unbearable by mid-morning, and students—especially younger ones—are struggling to cope. Traveling to and from school in such hot weather also poses health risks like heatstroke, dehydration, and fatigue.
This is not just a matter of convenience; it is a question of health and basic safety. Children are among the most vulnerable members of society, and their well-being must be the top priority for any responsible administration. Continuing academic sessions amid this heatwave is not only unwise but potentially harmful. Parents are already raising concerns, and teachers too are finding it difficult to deliver lessons effectively in such sweltering conditions.
The current circumstances call for compassion and foresight. Extending the summer break will not disrupt the academic calendar in any significant way—it can easily be adjusted by shortening the winter vacation or by scheduling a few additional working days later in the year. But failing to act now may result in a public health concern and a wave of absenteeism that can be easily avoided.
The government must listen to the ground realities and act in the best interest of its students. An immediate extension of the summer vacation across Kashmir is not only reasonable—it is necessary.
