Cold Winds Arrive: Schools in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Noida, and Uttar Pradesh Announce Winter Break
North India is currently reeling under severe cold. Cold winds and plummeting temperatures have disrupted normal life in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Noida, and many parts of Uttar Pradesh. Cold wave-like conditions are developing, especially during the morning and late night hours. According to the Meteorological Department, northwesterly winds have caused temperatures to drop several degrees below normal, posing a significant risk to children’s health. Keeping this in mind, education departments in various states and districts have announced a “winter break” in schools to protect students from the harsh winter.
Weather Conditions and the Impact of Cold Winds
Cold winds are blowing vigorously in Delhi-NCR these days. Fog is also being observed, along with a drop in minimum temperatures in the morning. Snowfall continues in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, and the effects of cold winds are reaching the plains. Meanwhile, temperatures remained below normal in Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh. School-going children in NCR areas, including Noida, faced severe cold in the early mornings, leading to an increase in coughs, colds, fevers, and other cold-related complaints.
Why is the winter break decision necessary?
Experts believe that children and the elderly are more affected by the cold. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures increases respiratory illnesses. School administrations were concerned that having children travel daily in the cold could negatively impact their health. Therefore, state governments, recognizing the gravity of the situation, declared school holidays. This decision is considered not only an administrative but also a necessary step from a health perspective.
Relief for Parents and Children
The announcement of school holidays has brought relief to both children and parents. Parents, especially those with young children, were worried about their children’s well-being. Getting up early in the morning, getting ready, walking to school in the cold winds, and then returning in the evening was challenging for children. Winter break has given them the opportunity to stay safe at home. Children are now spending time with their families and protecting themselves from the cold.
Online Classes: Option or Challenge?
Some schools have decided to continue online classes during winter break. This ensures that studies are not significantly affected. However, not all families have access to digital resources, and this may pose a challenge for some children. Children from rural areas and poor families may be deprived of online education due to lack of internet access and smartphones. The administration must also consider alternative arrangements for these children to avoid increasing educational inequality.
Health Advice and Precautions
Doctors advise people to take special precautions during the winter season. It is important to wear warm clothing, consume adequate nutrition, and consume warm liquids such as tea, soup, and decoctions. It is best to prevent children from playing outside in the morning and evening and keep them engaged in light activities indoors. Furthermore, if a child complains of a cold or fever, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately.
Social and Economic Impact
Winter rest also has social and economic impacts. Childcare becomes a challenge for working parents. However, many parents are opting to work from home during this time. On the other hand, local businesses such as school vans, tuition centers, and stationery shops may be temporarily affected. However, this economic loss is considered insignificant compared to health safety.
Weather Department Warning
The Meteorological Department has predicted that the cold wave will intensify in the coming days. Cold wave conditions may become severe in many areas. Therefore, people have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and take special care of their elderly and children. The administration is also taking steps such as arranging bonfires, night shelters, and distributing warm clothing to provide relief to the poor and homeless.
The Way Forward
Winter breaks are only a temporary solution, but in the long term, we must be better prepared for such weather-related challenges. Heaters in school buildings, hot meals for children, and awareness programs to protect them from the cold are essential. Additionally, the education system must be developed in such a way that education is not disrupted in any emergency.
Conclusion
The winter breaks declared in schools due to the cold winds in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Noida, and Uttar Pradesh are a commendable step towards the safety and health of children. This shows that when it comes to the future generation, the government and administration do not want to be negligent. Hopefully, the weather will return to normal soon and children will be able to return to their schools in a safe and healthy environment. Until then, this winter break is a time of rest and security for children, which will allow them to return to school with renewed energy in the coming days.