It is both strange and deeply concerning that in the 21st century, a Government Primary School in Ganderbal’s Babawayil Balla continues to function without a proper approach road. Established in 2009, the school has been serving the local community for over a decade, yet it remains disconnected from the most basic form of infrastructure-road connectivity. Students and teachers are forced to cross a water nallah every day to reach the premises, turning their journey to school into a risky adventure rather than a routine. The absence of a road is not merely an inconvenience – it is a threat to the safety of young children. During the rainy season, when the nallah swells, crossing it becomes dangerous. Residents report that the school often remains closed on rainy days, disrupting education and further disadvantaging the students. But the more troubling question is – what if heavy rains occur during school hours? How will these children return home safely? The precarious situation has left teachers and parents anxious, yet official attention remains minimal.
It is astonishing that a school could have been constructed without ensuring an approach road in the first place. This points to glaring gaps in planning and coordination between departments. Education infrastructure cannot exist in isolation; it must be supported by essential amenities such as roads, fencing, and playgrounds. Neglecting these basics not only undermines the quality of education but also endangers lives. The district administration and local leaders must act swiftly and compassionately. A workable solution-such as constructing a small bridge or a raised pathway over the nallah-must be prioritised before a tragedy forces action. Waiting for an accident to happen before responding should be a last resort.
Additionally, the school’s lack of fencing and playground further reflects the indifference towards rural educational facilities. Recreational spaces are not luxuries but vital components of a healthy school environment, promoting motivation, discipline, and joy in learning. Education is meant to empower, not endanger. For the children of Babawayil Balla, attending school should not mean risking their safety each day. The administration must ensure that this basic right to safe access and proper facilities is fulfilled immediately – not as a favour, but as a fundamental responsibility.
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