Rajasthan High Court Bans Use of Over 86,000 Dilapidated School Classrooms
The Rajasthan High Court has ordered the immediate closure of 86,934 dilapidated classrooms in government schools across the state, directing that they be locked to prevent entry. The ruling follows a government survey, prompted by a recent fatal roof collapse in Jhalawar, which found thousands of school buildings and classrooms to be completely unsafe. The court has mandated the state to provide alternative arrangements to ensure students' education is not disrupted, highlighting a critical public safety and infrastructure crisis.
Unpacked:
The order followed a government survey initiated after a fatal roof collapse in Jhalawar, where seven children died, highlighting the dangerous conditions and prompting urgent action to prevent further tragedies.
The High Court has mandated the state to ensure uninterrupted education by providing alternative arrangements, such as shifting students to safer classrooms, temporary structures, or other schools, though detailed plans are still unfolding.
Chronic underfunding, bureaucratic delays, and poor maintenance have left many buildings unsafe. Most funding provisions for repairs have remained on paper, with basic infrastructure issues neglected despite repeated warnings and incidents.
Rajasthan's infrastructure crisis is severe but not unique; similar problems exist nationwide. The state has below-average school enrolment and funding, and the central government has ordered a nationwide safety audit to address systemic failures in school building maintenance.