Palakkad Collector Orders Suspension of Physical Classes From Monday as Mercury Hits 40 Degree Celsius; Online Mode Mandated

Palakkad: With temperatures in Palakkad district hitting 40.1 degree celsius — and the heat index touching a punishing 45 degree celsius — the District Collector, who also chairs the District Disaster Management Authority, has ordered the suspension of in-person classes at all educational institutions from Monday. The order covers schools, colleges including professional and technical institutions, and coaching centres, all of which are directed to shift to online mode immediately.

The decision was taken in view of the extreme heat, high UV index, elevated risk of heatstroke and dehydration, inadequate ventilation in most classrooms, and the absence of any forecast indicating a temperature drop in the coming days. The order will remain in force until temperatures record below 37 degree celsius on two consecutive days.

All classes, including attendance, must be conducted through university or board-approved online platforms to ensure no student suffers academic loss. Scheduled examinations and practical classes may be held in person only if conducted in adequately cooled and ventilated spaces with drinking water and ORS solution made available. Unavoidable laboratory, clinical, and practical sessions that cannot be conducted online may be held in small batches not exceeding two hours, with strict ventilation and temperature controls in place.

The public is advised to avoid stepping out between 10 am and 4 pm and to drink adequate water. Hostels and residential institutions must ensure clean drinking water, cooling arrangements, and medical assistance for students. Violations of the order may be reported to the District Emergency Operations Centre helpline at 1077, and action will be taken against violators under applicable laws.