Sindh disability staff oppose cancellation of summer vacations directive

Teachers and therapists warn heatwave risks as DEPD orders continued classes during extreme temperatures across rehabilitation centres.

KARACHI: Teachers and physiotherapists working under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) in Sindh have expressed serious concerns over the cancellation of summer vacations, amid ongoing heatwaves, prolonged power outages and rising temperatures across the province.

The controversy emerged after the department issued a directive requiring teachers, therapists and rehabilitation professionals to continue duties during the summer break. Staff members argue that the decision places both employees and children with disabilities at risk, given the lack of basic cooling and power backup facilities in many institutions.

According to the circular issued on June 2 by DEPD Section Officer Ashfaq Ahmed Jokhio, staff were instructed to remain engaged during the vacation period. The directive noted that rehabilitation services could be affected by a combined 70-day gap in summer and winter breaks.

The circular also referenced an earlier notification dated May 22, instructing regional directors to cancel summer vacations for relevant staff. It warned that non-compliance could result in disciplinary action, including withdrawal of allowances and possible repatriation of deputation staff to parent departments.

However, employees say the policy ignores harsh working conditions, particularly during extreme heat. A teacher from Jamshoro, speaking anonymously, said classrooms lack air-conditioning and often experience extended power outages, making it difficult to conduct safe sessions.

“These instructions may appear beneficial for rehabilitation, but they ignore the health risks of exposing children to extreme temperatures,” another staff member said, questioning why children with disabilities should be excluded from nationwide safety considerations regarding heat exposure.

Therapists working in the department highlighted that children with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and sensory impairments are among the most vulnerable to heat stress and poor environmental conditions.

They argued that while uninterrupted rehabilitation is important, the current infrastructure is not equipped to safely support year-round operations during extreme weather conditions.

The issue has sparked broader debate over occupational safety, institutional preparedness, and the balance between continuous rehabilitation services and health risks during Pakistan’s increasingly severe summer heatwaves.