Carmel Convent reopens for physical classes 17 days after tree collapse

While students arrived at the school with a largely sad demeanour, parents appreciated resumption of classes, saying it will help them cope with the tragedy

After staying closed for 17 days since the July 8 tree collapse incident that left a Class-10 student dead and 18 others injured, Carmel Convent School, Sector 9, reopened for physical classes on Monday.

Students of Carmel Convent School, Sector 9, Chandigarh, leaving after attending physical classes that resumed on Monday after 17 days. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

The school day started with a prayer meeting for the injured students and bus attendant Sheela. While students arrived at the school with a largely sad demeanour, parents appreciated resumption of classes. “Staying at home was making it harder for children to cope with the tragedy. They need normalcy back in their lives to move on,” said a parent.

Other parents said physical classes were also crucial for the upcoming exams. The school had been running online classes since July 18.

Parents also acknowledged the school management, principal and staff for visiting the injured students and offering support.

As some of these students are still undergoing treatment, they did not attend school.

The bus attendant, Sheela, meanwhile is off ventilator support, but continues to remain under watch in the intensive care unit at PGIMER.