While J&K government is yet to officially declare a heatwave or announce any relaxations for schools and offices, the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Kashmir, has become perhaps the first government department to advise the public against unnecessary visits.
The order, which is being widely circulated on social media, advises people not to come to the office “unless it is absolutely necessary.” The citizens have been directed to send their grievances and service requests through WhatsApp, with a promise that these will be resolved within 48 hours wherever possible.
The move has been widely hailed on social media as a welcome initiative, with many users expressing hope that the department will be able to deliver on its promise.
The order has been issued right at the onset of the intense spell of heat hitting Kashmir. However, no heatwave has been declared officially yet. Consequently, no closure or change in working hours for schools or most government offices has been announced.
Meanwhile, thousands of children, a majority under 10 years of age, continue to commute daily in buses and vans to schools. There are growing calls for a summer break from parents and doctors to protect children from prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
Moreover, many schools lack fans and adequate drinking water facilities, exposing students to discomfort and potential health risks One parent lamented that his two children take nearly 90 minutes to get to school by bus from school. “They travel at 3 pm, which is the hottest hour of the day,” he said, not wishing to identify himself.
