by Babra Wani
SRINAGAR: Schools across Kashmir are set to reopen on July 7, 2025, but the mood is tense. Parents are worried as children prepare to return amid an intense summer.
June brought historic heat to the Valley. Srinagar recorded its hottest June since 1978, making it the second warmest since 1892. Qazigund also saw its hottest June in over 50 years. According to Kashmir Weather, Srinagar’s average maximum temperature rose to 31.0°C, with a mean minimum of 18.2°C, pushing the overall average to 24.6°C. Only June 1978 was hotter, with a 25.0°C average.
A parent in Srinagar voiced concern that July and August could be even hotter, adding that his daughter had fainted twice during school hours. “We are very concerned. It is difficult for us adults. Imagine what it is like for children,” he said.
Health Concerns Among Children
Dr Suhail Naik, former consultant paediatrician at DHS and Assistant Professor at the Children’s Hospital Bemina, said heatwaves have serious implications for children. Symptoms range from mild irritability to life-threatening heat stroke.
“Early signs include fatigue, low energy, and restlessness, which are often overlooked,” he noted. Heat stroke is the most severe form. Prolonged heat can worsen chronic conditions and increase the risk of water-borne diseases due to contamination.
Dr Suhail explained that infants are especially at risk due to their large body surface area relative to weight, which makes them prone to dehydration, fevers, and electrolyte imbalance.
“Children should stay indoors, avoid sun exposure, and drink plenty of clean fluids. Over-clothing should be avoided, and cooling methods at home should be used,” he said. Children over six months should be given ample safe drinking water. Fever must be managed quickly with fluids and treatment.
Heat Risks During School Travel
Travel during peak afternoon hours is a major concern. Many schools lack adequate heat protection. Dr Suhail emphasised that schools must prepare for climate change by improving travel and indoor conditions.
The Srinagar Heat Wave Action Plan 2024–2025 outlines safety protocols for children and schools. It identifies children as a vulnerable group and directs the Education Department to suspend operations during peak heat hours (12 to 4 PM) when a heatwave is declared.
The plan calls for shaded shelter areas, safe drinking water, oral rehydration solutions, and a ban on outdoor classes during alerts. Teachers are to be trained on heat safety. Posters and pamphlets will be used to spread awareness. Zonal Education Officers are designated Deputy Incident Commanders in local heatwave response teams to integrate schools into the disaster response system.
