Sullia: In Sullia taluk, which is highly prone to natural disasters in the district, preparations are underway to relocate three dilapidated anganwadi centres well ahead of the monsoon season.
The number of government schools and anganwadi buildings turning decrepit has been rising year after year. Amid a shortage of funds to construct new facilities, these anganwadi centres, which have remained in a precarious condition for the last two to three years are finally being relocated keeping the children's safety in mind.
Cracked walls, collapsing roofs!
There are a total of 150 anganwadi centres in the taluk, out of which the ones in Nettaru, Pataje, and Mogra have been identified as highly hazardous, making them completely unfit for children this monsoon. Demolishing these structures, which pose a severe risk of wall and roof collapse, and building new ones is the only permanent solution. While proposals for new buildings have already been submitted, the release of funds is still awaited.
Status of the three centres
The walls and roof of the 30-year-old Nettaru anganwadi centre have turned dilapidated. It accommodates more than 25 children who cannot be seated inside during the rainy season. Similarly, the Pataje anganwadi is unsafe due to cracked walls and a leaking roof. The story is no different for the 35-year-old Mogra anganwadi in Guttigar. Together, these three anganwadis cater to over 60 children.
Instructions for relocation
According to a report submitted by the building quality inspection team, these three anganwadis are unsafe for the upcoming monsoon. Consequently, the taluk disaster management committee has ordered an immediate relocation. Plans have been made to temporarily run the Nettaru anganwadi centre at the Nettaru Higher Primary School, the Pataje anganwadi centre at the Pataje school, and the Mogra anganwadi centre at a local school.
Child safety is paramount
The CDPO department has reported that three anganwadi buildings are dangerous. Therefore, directives have been issued to utilize nearby school buildings. This precautionary measure is being implemented right at the beginning of the monsoon to ensure the safety of the children. - Manjula, Tehsildar
Proposals for new buildings
Information has been compiled regarding structures with dilapidated walls, weak roofs, hazardous trees, and loose electrical lines. Steps have been taken to relocate the three anganwadi centres as a safety precaution. Proposals for constructing new buildings at these locations have already been submitted. - Shailaja, CDPO, Sulli
- Kiran Prasad Kundadka