Bihar School Timings Changed Due to Heatwave; New Schedule Effective Till June 30

The Bihar Education Department has revised school timings for secondary and higher secondary institutions across Bihar in response to the ongoing heatwave conditions affecting several districts. The new schedule came into effect on June 22, 2026, and will remain applicable until June 30, 2026.

The decision was taken to safeguard students from extreme temperatures while ensuring that academic activities continue without major disruptions. With temperatures rising across many parts of Bihar, authorities have opted to shift school operations to the cooler morning hours.

New School Timings Announced

According to the Directorate of Secondary Education, schools will now function from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM during the heatwave period.

The revised schedule has been designed to minimize students' exposure to intense afternoon heat while allowing schools to complete their academic activities effectively.

Revised Daily Schedule

6:30 AM: School opens
6:30 AM - 7:00 AM: Morning prayer and assembly
7:00 AM onwards: Regular classes begin
Class Duration: 40 minutes per period
9:00 AM - 9:40 AM: Recess and Mid-Day Meal break (for primary schools)
12:20 PM: Academic sessions conclude
12:20 PM - 12:30 PM: Lesson review, homework checking, and planning for the next day

Heatwave Precaution Measures

The revised timing aims to reduce the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.

Education authorities have advised schools to:

Ensure availability of drinking water.
Encourage students to stay hydrated.
Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Monitor students for signs of heat-related discomfort.
Maintain adequate ventilation in classrooms.

District Magistrates Given Additional Powers

The Education Department has also empowered District Magistrates (DMs) to take further decisions based on local weather conditions.

If temperatures rise significantly or weather conditions worsen in specific districts, DMs may:

Modify school timings further.
Suspend classes temporarily.
Introduce additional safety measures.
Issue district-specific advisories for educational institutions.

This flexible approach allows local administrations to respond quickly to changing weather patterns and prioritize student safety.

Why the Change Was Necessary

Bihar has been witnessing above-normal temperatures and heatwave-like conditions in several regions. The early morning school schedule is intended to ensure that students can attend classes before temperatures become excessively high during the day.

The move reflects the government's effort to balance educational continuity with health and safety concerns during the summer season.

Advice for Students and Parents

Students and parents are advised to:

Reach school on time under the revised schedule.
Carry sufficient drinking water.
Wear light and comfortable clothing where permitted.
Follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.
Stay updated through official school notifications.

Conclusion

The Bihar Education Department's decision to revise school timings highlights the importance of student safety during extreme weather conditions. With schools now operating from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM until June 30, 2026, the state aims to protect students from heatwave-related risks while maintaining regular academic activities. Parents, students, and school authorities are encouraged to follow the revised schedule and remain alert to any additional instructions issued by district administrations.