Mysuru: A survey conducted by the Department of School Education and Literacy has identified 406 classrooms across 168 government schools in Mysuru district as being in a dilapidated condition, raising concerns about student safety as the monsoon season intensifies.
Despite the state government sanctioning ₹5.8 crore for repair and restoration works, civil works have not yet commenced, leaving hundreds of students and teachers to continue using damaged infrastructure amid ongoing rains.
Survey reveals extent of infrastructure concerns
According to the survey findings, of the 406 affected classrooms, 266 require minor repairs, while 140 classrooms have been classified as severely damaged and in urgent need of restoration.
The highest concentration of affected classrooms has been reported in T. Narasipura, Hunsur and Periyapatna taluks, where several school buildings are facing structural issues.
The findings have sparked concerns among parents, educators and community leaders, particularly as students continue attending classes in buildings that may pose safety risks during heavy rainfall.
Monsoon worsens challenges for schools
With the monsoon gaining momentum across the district, deteriorating school infrastructure is creating additional difficulties for both students and teachers.
Leaking roofs, damaged ceilings, cracked walls and water seepage have become common issues in several schools. The condition of some classrooms has reportedly worsened due to continuous exposure to rain and inadequate maintenance over the years.
Education officials fear that prolonged rainfall could further damage already weakened structures if repair works are not initiated promptly.
Government sanctions ₹5.8 crore for repairs
To address the issue, the state government has sanctioned ₹5.8 crore for repair and renovation works in the affected schools.
The proposed works include structural restoration, repair of leaking roofs, replacement of roofing tiles, ceiling repairs, plastering of damaged sections, sealing of wall cracks and prevention of water seepage.
In addition, authorities plan to undertake repairs to toilets, plumbing systems, septic tanks and electrical infrastructure to improve overall school facilities.
The allocation is expected to provide much-needed relief to schools that have been struggling with ageing and damaged infrastructure.
Tender process completed, work expected by September
Deputy Director of School Education and Literacy Udaykumar D stated that tenders have already been floated for the repair of the identified 406 classrooms following the government’s approval.
According to the department, civil works are expected to commence by September after completion of the tendering and administrative processes.
Officials said preparations are underway to ensure that the sanctioned funds are utilised efficiently and that the repairs are completed within the stipulated timeframe.
However, concerns remain over the delay, especially given the ongoing monsoon season.
Activists urge faster implementation
Education activist and DSS leader Alagud Shivakumar expressed concern over the condition of government schools and urged authorities to expedite the repair process.
He noted that government schools are already facing challenges such as declining enrolment and inadequate basic facilities. Delays in repairing damaged classrooms could further impact the learning environment and discourage parents from enrolling their children in government institutions.
Shivakumar stressed the need for immediate action to restore the schools and ensure safe learning conditions for students.
Previous repair efforts continue
The Department of School Education and Literacy has previously undertaken repairs of several severely damaged school buildings using funds from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, government grants, Zilla Panchayat allocations and support from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
Despite these efforts, hundreds of classrooms across Mysuru district continue to require urgent attention, highlighting the scale of the infrastructure challenge facing the education sector.
Officials maintain that the latest funding allocation is intended to address the remaining gaps and improve school facilities across the district.
Conclusion
The identification of 406 dilapidated classrooms in 168 government schools has highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in Mysuru district. While the state government has sanctioned ₹5.8 crore for repairs, stakeholders are calling for faster implementation to ensure student safety and prevent further deterioration during the monsoon season.