Schools told what to do during heavy rain

MUMBAI: Schools must not allow buses carrying students to cross water bodies and make immediate repairs to buildings, reads a circular from the state school education

MUMBAI: Schools must not allow buses carrying students to cross water bodies and make immediate repairs to buildings, reads a circular from the state school education department issued on Saturday, in the wake of the Mahad tragedy.

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Private schools and those run by local self-government bodies such as the BMC were asked to repair buildings. Principals said repairs are difficult in schools in heritage structures.“Our building is more than 150 years old. We need permission from the heritage board,” said Father Francis Swamy, principal, St Mary’s School (ICSE) Mazgaon. “Reputed private schools are usually in good shape, the problem is of smaller schools,” said SC Kedia, honorary secretary, Unaided Schools Forum. Another suggestion was students must not be taken to school if they have to cross a water body. This will affect schools in Thane and Navi Mumbai. Bus owners said buses should not go to waterlogged areas. “It is dangerous to drive,” said Anil Garg, president of the association.

The circular is binding on managements of all schools.