Chennai: Despite several mishaps, school education authorities are yet to learn their safety lessons. About 28 school children studying in Gandhiji Memorial Primary School at Perambur, are endangering their lives by studying in the dilapidated building built in 1967.
And the saddest part is that the government-aided school has been severed its water connection a few months ago for non-payment of metro water charges.
Started as an evening school to cater to children it was taken over by the government two decades ago, since then there is no improvement, admit teachers.
“The walls are so damp and dilapidated that any triggering factor would collapse the classroom. With the monsoon approaching, we are taking classes with a sense of fear,” admitted a teacher seeking anonymity.
“We buy water from tankers, pay the electricity bill and try to provide other facilities to retain the few kids studying in the school. Most of the children in the area are staying in their homes as they neither have the cash nor the interest to join this school,” said another teacher.
R. Poongodi, headmistress of the school, rued that people broke the compound wall of the school to use the empty space for anti-social activities at night. Empty liquor bottles are a common sight on school campus.
Adding to the woes, every five years the school is used as an election booth. The teachers are forced to supply refreshments and pay for electricity during the period. Recently, the government also announced a special campaign for the voters on the school premises, which is going to be held on July 9 and 23. Also, a notice is sent asking the teachers to ensure proper facilities for officials.
When contacted, assistant elementary education officer M. Tamizhmani said he is initiating steps towards improvement and awareness will be spread in the area.
