170 anganwadi centres in district need urgent repairs

Following heavy rains in the recent past, as many as 170 anganwadi centres in the district have been declared unsafe due to severe structural issues such as cracks, leakages and dampness. A recent survey conducted by anganwadi workers and unions has flagged these centres and the list has been handed over to the higher authorities for urgent renovation or reconstruction.

Instructions have already been issued to shift centres operating from severely dilapidated buildings. Both government and privately housed centres are on the list, with many requiring immediate relocation.

One worker, requesting anonymity, said several centres are in such pitiable condition that neither workers nor helpers can sit inside. The worst affected centres are in Bhaini Darera village, Goslan in Dehlon block and many in the Machhiwara and Pakhowal blocks. At Lamma village, rainwater leakage from the ceiling destroyed food stocks stored in drums. In Nathowal, cracks and seepage in the ceiling pose a serious risk, while in Raikot block, leakage has rendered one centre without electricity. Workers in Bassia, Jhorran and Johlan villages are also struggling due to unsafe rooms where children are looked after and ration is stored.

“The survey was carried out by workers and helpers after the floods. The list has been submitted to the district programme officer. We hope the government will release funds for renovation or at least relocate the centres to safer premises,” said another anganwadi worker.

Confirming the development, district programme officer Gurmit Singh told The Tribune that Ludhiana had 2,487 anganwadi centres, of which 2,317 are in a good condition while 170 have been found unsafe.

“We have asked the authorities to act swiftly. The ultimate assessment lies with the PWD, which declares that a building was unsafe for use. Till then, we have instructed workers to shift to nearby centres or alternative spaces. The district has 1.5 lakh beneficiaries depending on these centres,” he said.

Anganwadi centres play a vital role in supporting underprivileged families by providing ration, early childhood care up to three years of age, counselling for mothers, pension schemes for differently abled and other welfare measures. These centres are jointly funded by the Centre and the state government.