The District Elementary Education Office has officially revised school opening times in Dibrugarh district with immediate effect, pushing the start time to 10 am from the usual 9 am, citing severe cold weather conditions and concerns for student health and safety. The order, issued on Tuesday, will remain in force until further notice.
The directive, signed by Samiron Bora, Inspector of Schools and District Elementary Education Officer cum District Mission Coordinator, Dibrugarh, applies to all government, provincialised, and private lower primary, upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary schools across the district. However, school closing times will remain unchanged.
“In view of the prevailing severe cold weather in Dibrugarh District, and in the interest of the health and safety of students, with the approval of the District Commissioner, Dibrugarh, the school opening time is hereby revised to 10 am with immediate effect until further orders,” the official order stated.
The decision comes as Dibrugarh has experienced a sustained period of cold weather, with temperatures dropping significantly in recent days. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, the district recorded minimum temperatures of 12.5°C on 5th January, 9.4°C on 4th January, 9.8°C on 3rd January, 8.8°C on 2nd January, and 9.4°C on 1st January 2026.
The cold snap has raised concerns amongst parents and education officials about the potential health risks to young children travelling to school during the coldest hours of the morning. Early morning temperatures, particularly in rural areas of the district, can feel considerably colder due to wind chill and fog conditions.
Educational authorities said that the measure is precautionary and aims to protect students from cold-related illnesses whilst ensuring minimal disruption to the academic calendar. By delaying the start time by one hour, students can travel to school after morning temperatures have risen slightly, reducing exposure to harsh weather conditions. Many families in rural areas face additional challenges, as children often walk considerable distances to reach their schools.
District education officials will continue monitoring weather conditions and may extend or modify the order based on meteorological updates and temperature trends in the coming days.
