With the monsoon approaching, the “deteriorating” condition of Government Primary School, Dabba, has come into focus.
As per locals, more than 1,000 students continue to study in “unsafe and poorly maintained” classrooms at the school. Built in 1955, the school building has reportedly not undergone any major structural renovation for decades and has leaking roofs, damp walls and crumbling plaster.
The situation has led to fear of children’s safety among teachers and parents.
According to school staff, the building’s condition worsens significantly during the rainy season as water seeps through roofs and walls, making it difficult for students to attend classes.
Portions of the ceiling have developed cracks and plaster has peeled off from several walls, exposing the ageing structure. Teachers, requesting not to be named, said every monsoon brings fresh challenges for students as well as the staff.
“During heavy rain, water leaks are reported in classrooms. At times, it becomes difficult to continue teaching as water enters classrooms and students have to move outside. We are worried about safety of the children,” said a teacher.
Deputy District Education Officer Manoj Kumar said he was not aware of the situation. “The matter is not in my knowledge. However, I will check it and take action, if needed,” he added.
Another staff member said the school has been without major repairs despite the issue being raised multiple times over the years.
“The infrastructure is very old. Dampness and leakages have damaged several classrooms. With monsoon approaching, fear among students and teachers is increasing,” the teacher added.
The issue recently came into focus after a request was sent to an industrial group seeking support under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The appeal highlighted the school building required urgent reconstruction, waterproofing and modernisation to provide a safe learning environment.
Teachers and locals said the school continues to have high student strength despite the poor infrastructure as it caters to children from densely populated localities nearby. Parents expressed concern that if immediate repair work was not carried out before heavy rains, the situation may become even more dangerous.