DTF Punjab Calls for Reduced School Hours During Foggy Conditions
The Democratic Teachers' Front (DTF) Punjab has made an urgent appeal to the state government. They want school timings reduced immediately. This request comes in response to the dense fog and severe cold currently gripping the region.
Concerns Over Health and Safety
DTF leaders express deep worry about the well-being of students and staff. They cite the prevailing weather as a major threat. Schools reopened just this Wednesday after an extended winter break.
The government had already pushed the break from December 31st to January 7th. Later, they extended it further until January 13th due to adverse conditions.
Visibility Issues and Travel Risks
Vikram Dev Singh, the DTF state president, spoke alongside other officials. They highlighted intense cold and persistent fog over recent days. This weather has drastically reduced visibility on roads.
Road accidents have increased as a direct result. In districts like Fazilka, many teachers commute long distances using various transport modes. Students also travel in private vehicles, school buses, and vans.
The Mental Strain on Drivers
The fear of arriving late to school affects drivers significantly. It compromises their mental alertness. This heightened anxiety raises the risk of accidents on foggy roads.
DTF leaders referenced tragic fatalities from previous fog seasons. They emphasized the need for preventive action now.
Specific Demands from the Front
The organization has put forward clear proposals:
- Revise school hours to operate from after 10 am until 3 pm.
- This schedule should minimize risks to lives during the fog season.
- Adjust the academic calendar in view of changing weather patterns.
- Start winter vacations from January 1st each year consistently.
Lack of Adequate Arrangements
DTF office-bearers pointed out another critical issue. Government schools often lack proper facilities to protect children from the cold. This compounds the dangers posed by the weather.
Several students and teachers have lost their lives in past fog-related accidents. The Front insists these tragedies must not repeat.
Formal Request for Timings Change
Keeping health and safety as top priorities, the DTF has made a formal demand. They want timings fixed for all primary, middle, high, and secondary schools. This includes classes from LKG to Class XII.
The proposed schedule is from after 10 am to 3 pm. They request this change remain in effect until January 31, 2026. This long-term adjustment aims to provide consistent protection during winter months.
The Democratic Teachers' Front stresses immediate action is necessary. They believe revised school hours will safeguard countless lives across Punjab.
