Parents, Students Urge Govt to Extend Summer Break as Severe Heatwave Set to Grip Kashmir

Srinagar, July 17: Amid the ongoing heatwave and with no immediate relief in sight, parents and students across Kashmir have appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir government to extend the summer vacation or temporarily shift to online classes to safeguard children from extreme weather conditions.The appeal comes as meteorological forecasts indicate that a severe-intensity heatwave is likely to affect the Kashmir Valley from July 18, with the spell expected to persist for at least two days. Srinagar is likely to witness maximum temperatures exceeding 36°C, particularly on July 18, making it one of the hottest periods of the season.Parents have expressed concern over students’ health and well-being, saying prolonged exposure to high temperatures could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Many have urged the authorities to take preventive measures by extending the summer break until weather conditions improve or introducing online classes to ensure academic continuity without compromising children’s safety.With temperatures remaining well above normal across the Valley, residents have also been advised to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and follow official weather advisories.