SRINAGAR: Parents across Kashmir have urged the Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) to revise school timings as colder mornings set in and changing weather conditions are forecast across the Valley.
The request comes ahead of a forecast spell from October 6, with the Meteorological Department predicting light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds at some places, besides the possibility of light snowfall over higher reaches. A broader spell of rain is expected from October 9.
Parents said the early start was particularly difficult for younger children, who have to leave home during colder morning hours to reach school on time. They said shifting the start to 10 am would provide a more suitable schedule during the colder months.
Mudasir Mir, whose child studies in Class 2 at a school in Srinagar, said the morning chill was making early travel difficult for young students.
“Children, particularly those in lower classes, find it difficult to leave home early in the morning when temperatures are low. A 10 am start would give them more time to prepare and commute in comparatively comfortable conditions,” he said.
Under the existing schedule, schools within Srinagar municipal limits function from 9 am to 3 pm, while those outside the municipal limits and in other parts of the Kashmir division operate from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. The timings were introduced from April 1 under Order No. 119-DSEK of 2026.
Parents have sought a seasonal review, particularly for primary and lower-primary students, saying a later start would limit their exposure to colder morning conditions without extending the school day.
With the Valley heading towards colder weather, parents have urged the DSEK to consider the proposed change and issue revised timings if deemed necessary.
