Kashmir revises school timings for winter from Oct 15Kashmir

<h2>Why the change</h2> The order comes as weather conditions shift across the region and temperatures begin to drop. The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has forecast light to moderate rain at many places on October 14 and 15, with snowfall over the higher reaches, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Officials have advised farmers to keep harvested apples, paddy and other crops in safe storage during this spell.

The fresh precipitation has already transformed the higher reaches into snow-covered landscapes. Pahalgam and its adjoining areas in Anantnag district received overnight snowfall, while intermittent snow continued in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, the Zojila axis, Razdan Top and Tulail in Gurez. Tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg are witnessing a renewed rush of visitors, with tourist activity in Gulmarg reportedly picking up significantly amid the fresh snow.

The Meteorological Department expects conditions to improve from October 16, with largely dry weather likely to prevail across Jammu and Kashmir until October 24. Travellers, transporters and the general public have been advised to plan their journeys in line with weather advisories.

<h2>What schools must do</h2> The revised timings apply to government and recognised private schools across the Kashmir Division. Copies of the directive have been forwarded to officials of the School Education Department, the divisional administration, deputy commissioners and chief education officers for implementation. School authorities are expected to ensure the new schedule is followed from the effective date, and students and parents have been advised to check with their respective institutions for any additional instructions about daily classes and transport arrangements.

<h2>Not the winter vacation</h2> Officials and observers have cautioned that the revision of school timings should not be confused with the announcement of winter holidays. The October 15 schedule only specifies the daily working hours of schools in the Kashmir Division; the announcement of the winter vacation schedule is still awaited. Students and parents have been advised to monitor official communications from the Directorate of School Education Kashmir for updates on the winter break.