Pre-primary students shifted to balcony for their safety; School also doubles up as polling station
MAPUSA
The safety of children attending the government primary school in Saligao has been compromised as a severe termite attack has weakened the wooden rafters of the roof.
With the threat of collapse looming, some pre-primary students have been relocated to the balcony of the premises for their safety.
The school complex, although grand from the outside, faces significant concerns within its premises.
Comprising two separate blocks, one section is secured with aluminium roofing sheets, while the larger block, accommodating an anganwadi and pre-primary children along with a post office, has a tiled roof, which has become a cause for alarm.
Currently, the school caters to a total of 73 students, with the larger block housing the anganwadi and pre-primary sections, and the other block dedicated to primary classes from I to IV.
Parents have expressed apprehensions regarding the deteriorating condition of the roof, emphasising the urgent need for replacement of weakened rafters.
Despite notifying both the teachers concerned and the education department, no pre-emptive measures have been taken yet.
“A lot of wooden rafters have weakened due to the termite attack, posing a threat to the safety of our children. We urge the authorities to take immediate action before any unfortunate incident occurs,” voiced a concerned parent.
Furthermore, the school premises, which also serves as a polling station during elections, faces additional challenges such as water leakage during rainy seasons.
Moreover, the primary section lacks sufficient benches and cupboards, adding to the pressing issues.
Assistant District Education Inspector (ADEI) of the North Zone, Uma Bagkar confirmed that the education department has been alerted about the precarious state of the school’s roof, stressing the urgency of repairs to avert potential disasters.
“We have formally communicated with the education department and the relevant engineer responsible for maintaining government buildings. We anticipate swift action on their part,” stated Bagkar.
With the safety of young students hanging in the balance, the community eagerly awaits the prompt resolution of these critical issues to ensure a secure learning environment for all.
