Odisha Govt Warns Schools Defying Summer Closure Order Amid Heatwave

Bhubaneswar: Despite the Odisha government’s directive to shut all schools due to the ongoing heatwave, several schools across the state have allegedly continued to operate in violation of the order.

Taking strong exception to the defiance, the School and Mass Education Department has directed all District Education Officers (DEOs) to initiate immediate and strict action against the erring institutions. A letter issued by Additional Secretary Durga Prasad Mohapatra reiterated that the state government had mandated the closure of all government, aided, and private schools from April 22, 2025, to safeguard students from the extreme summer temperatures.

However, the department has received reports indicating non-compliance by certain schools, thereby endangering the health and well-being of students. The DEOs have now been instructed to monitor all educational institutions under their jurisdiction and ensure strict enforcement of the summer vacation order.

The move comes as Odisha continues to experience severe heatwave conditions, prompting widespread concerns over children’s safety and the need for strict adherence to government directives.