Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh/Ludhiana/Moga
Punjab is witnessing severe heatwave conditions as temperatures continue to soar across the state and Chandigarh. In view of the extreme weather, the Punjab government has changed the timings of government offices and schools for the next few days. Government offices and schools will now function from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM to protect employees and students from the intense afternoon heat.
The new schedule came into effect from Monday, May 25. However, on the very first day, nearly half of the staff in several government offices in Ludhiana reportedly failed to reach on time. Taking serious note of the delay, ADC General Poonam Singh said action would be taken against employees arriving late at offices linked to the DC office.
In contrast, officials in Moga set an example by reaching offices before the scheduled time. The DC, Tehsildar, ADC, and several other officers reportedly arrived before 7:30 AM to ensure smooth functioning under the new timings.
Meanwhile, the heatwave continues to intensify across Punjab. Bathinda recorded the highest temperature at 44.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for severe heatwave conditions for the next three days, warning that temperatures may rise further by up to three degrees Celsius.
Relief may arrive after May 28, as a fresh western disturbance is expected to become active. According to the weather department, strong winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kmph and light to moderate rainfall are likely in several areas of Punjab, which could bring temporary relief from the scorching heat.
