In view of the rising temperatures, schools across the national capital have been directed to implement strict heat wave safety measures, including a mandatory “water bell” system to prevent dehydration among students.
The Directorate of Education (DoE), Government of Delhi, in a fresh directive, has reiterated compliance with guidelines issued earlier this month, warning of adverse weather conditions in the coming days.
Under the new instructions, all government, aided and private unaided recognised schools must curtail outdoor assemblies or shift them to shaded or indoor spaces, ensuring minimal duration. Open air classes have been completely prohibited.
A key feature of the advisory is the introduction of the “water bell” initiative, requiring schools to ring a bell every 45-60 minutes to remind students to drink water regularly. The authorities have also made it mandatory for schools to ensure the availability of safe and cool drinking water at multiple accessible points on campus.
The DoE has further instructed schools to avoid all outdoor physical activities and instead focus on indoor engagements during this period of extreme heat.
To enhance awareness, schools have been directed to prominently display Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material issued by the Health Department and conduct brief awareness sessions during class hours or assemblies. These sessions will focus on preventive measures, hydration, and identifying symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Immediate first aid and medical assistance must be ensured wherever necessary.
Additionally, a “buddy system” has been recommended, where students are paired to monitor each other’s physical well-being during school hours.
Schools have also been asked to keep parents informed by regularly sharing weather advisories issued by the IMD through class specific communication channels. Daily heatwave forecasts are to be announced during assemblies and displayed on notice boards.
Parents have been advised to send children in light, breathable cotton clothing and reinforce personal hygiene practices, including daily bathing, to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.
Each school is required to appoint a nodal teacher to oversee the implementation of these measures, including the Water Bell initiative, awareness sessions, and display of IEC materials.
The DoE has mandated that an action taken report (ATR) be submitted by all schools to their respective district authorities by May 2, 2026, ensuring accountability and strict compliance with the heatwave preparedness guidelines.
Officials have emphasised that the measures must be followed “in letter and in spirit” to safeguard students amid intensifying summer conditions in Delhi.
