Nagpur: Even as Nagpur reeled under scorching temperatures crossing 44°C, students appearing for examinations conducted by Nagpur University and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) on Monday alleged that several examination centres failed to provide basic relief measures such as coolers and adequate drinking water, forcing many to endure sweltering conditions inside examination halls.
Students said the extreme heat severely impacted their concentration and performance during afternoon examinations. The complaints come despite directives issued last week by the district collector instructing educational institutions to ensure cooling arrangements and safe drinking water for examinees, particularly during afternoon sessions. Nagpur University had also directed centres to install coolers and provide drinking water for students appearing in the 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm shift, when temperatures remain at their peak.
Lack of Facilities at Major Centres
A visit by Times of India to several major examination centres across Civil Lines, Kamptee Road, and Katol Road revealed that many institutions had failed to arrange coolers or proper ventilation. Students were visibly distressed. Even invigilators reportedly struggled to remain inside the halls continuously, stepping out periodically to escape the oppressive heat. Students, however, had no option but to continue writing their papers in the uncomfortable conditions.
Health Incidents and Protests
The harsh weather took a physical toll as well. An LLB student suffered dehydration during the examination and required immediate assistance after centre staff rushed to arrange glucose and emergency care. The student later recovered and resumed the examination. Frustration among students also spilled over at an exam centre in Civil Lines, where law students reportedly engaged in a brief argument with officials over the lack of coolers and drinking water arrangements.
College Authorities Cite Constraints
College authorities, however, pointed towards logistical and financial constraints. A principal said bottled water was made available for CA students, but coolers had not been supplied by the exam-conducting body. "Nagpur University has not provided additional funds for installing coolers. We are already facing acute water shortage and struggling to meet our girls hostel demand. How are we expected to arrange water for outside examinees too? It is the university's duty," the principal said.
University and Government Response
Nagpur University vice-chancellor Manali Kshirsagar said students facing such issues can approach university helplines and assured that action would be taken on complaints. Meanwhile, a government college official claimed procedural delays were affecting arrangements. "Renting coolers requires approvals which may take another two days. Till then, we are holding all exams in ground-floor classrooms to minimise discomfort," the official said.
