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Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, June 21: The Government Primary School and Government Upper Primary School in Chewakalan hamlet, located about 3 kilometers east of Pulwama in South Kashmir, are operating from a single tin shed, subjecting students to extreme discomfort under the scorching sun.
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The locals said that despite the village’s track record of producing meritorious students, such as the recent National Eligibility Entrance Test topper Abdul Basit, the lack of proper infrastructure in these schools raises concerns about the government’s commitment to education in the village.
With approximately 80 students enrolled, the majority of whom come from humble backgrounds, the students not only battle the sweltering heat but also face constant disturbance caused by noise.
While expressing her dissatisfaction, Manazah Nissar, a student, highlighted the challenges faced by the students. “It is extremely difficult to study here, and even our teachers have urged for the premises to be fenced,” she said.
Another student, Munazah Nissar said: “I am proud to study here, but we do not have proper drinking water facilities. In the ongoing scorching heat, the temperature inside the sheds is twice as high, making it immensely harsh for us to concentrate on our studies.”
The Chief Education Officer of Pulwama, Nazir Ahmad, explained that the school was previously operating from a rented building, but the owner issued a notice, forcing the department to shift to the current rented accommodation. He further mentioned that four years ago, the school was housed in a permanent structure owned by the education department. However, it was relocated due to a threat from wild animals. “There were some traces of leopards inside the buildings, and the department shifted them to save children from becoming prey,” he explained.
He informed me that a detailed project report amounting to approximately Rs. 1.10 crore has been approved for the construction of new structures, and tenders will be soon invited. In the meantime, temporary structures have been set up for students to attend classes.
Regarding the lack of potable water and electricity, he said that the issue has been raised with the concerned departments, and work will commence soon. “The laying of water pipes and the installation of electric poles will soon begin,” he said.
He also guaranteed the construction of temporary washrooms until proper infrastructure is established. “To mitigate the scorching heat, he mentioned plans to change the school’s timing, starting classes at 7 am,” he said.
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