Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu: With severe cold conditions continuing across Jammu region, RTI Activist Raman Sharma has urged the Directorate of School Education, Jammu, to consider extending winter vacations or issuing alternative arrangements for schools scheduled to reopen on January 15.
In a representation submitted to the Director School Education, it has been pointed out that Jammu and adjoining districts are witnessing persistent cold weather accompanied by dense fog, particularly during early morning hours. The fog has significantly reduced visibility on roads, making daily commuting risky for school-going children, especially those who travel from distant areas.
The representation also highlights that most government and private schools in the region lack proper heating arrangements in classrooms. Students are often required to sit for long hours in cold conditions, which may cause discomfort and seasonal illness, particularly among younger children.
Keeping these factors in view, the applicant has requested the authorities to consider extending winter vacations for a few more days or, alternatively, to direct schools to operate with delayed timings until weather conditions improve. The appeal has been made as a preventive measure in the interest of students’ safety and well-being. A copy of the representation has also been forwarded to the Sakina Masood Itoo, Minister for School Education, J&K, seeking sympathetic consideration of the matter.DD