After 2 yrs, primary school to get a safety wall

After a long wait of two years, the construction of the boundary wall at Government Primary School (GPS), Bara Jodh Singh, Lohian, has finally begun. It has been a challenging time for both the teacher and students, who have continued their studies in an unsafe environment. The students had been attending school without any safety measures during this period.

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During the 2023 floods, several schools suffered significant damage, including the collapse of boundary walls. Government Primary School (GPS), Bara Jodh Singh, was one of the affected schools and the fallen bricks remained untouched for an extended period.

For two years, the teachers taught students in these unsafe conditions, and it became increasingly difficult for parents to send their children to school in such an environment. However, the school has now received a grant of Rs 8.50 lakh to construct a 170-metre-long boundary wall, which is expected to be completed in the next 15 days.

The school is located in a remote area near a highway. The Tribune had visited the school last year when stray dogs were wandering on the premises. According to school authorities, there are currently 15 students enrolled, and stray cattle also roam around the school grounds, creating additional problems. Teachers have been diligently monitoring footage from the CCTV cameras to ensure that no unauthorised individuals enter the premises.

The mother of Hargun, a Class V student at the school, had earlier expressed concerns about sending her daughter to a school without a boundary wall. “I raised the issue with the school authorities as well. I really hope the authorities address the situation,” she had earlier told the The Tribune. Today, when contacted, she expressed relief that the boundary wall is finally being constructed. “My two children study at the school, and now that the head of the school has received the grant, everyone will be safe,” she added.

Anju, the head teacher, said despite no boundary wall, she ensured the students' safety by regularly monitoring CCTV footage and keeping the students in closed classrooms. “Parents are no longer anxious,” she said.

As per information, a government middle school used to operate on the same premises but was closed a few years ago.