Dismantling of old structures on school campuses to be expedited: Minister

Dismantling of old structures on school campuses will be expedited, Minister for General Education V. Sivankutty has said.

School buildings to the tune of ₹5,000 crore had been constructed in government and aided schools using various funds. Though classes had got under way in these new structures, old buildings remained standing on many school campuses. Some of these structures were over a century old, a statement quoting the Minister said on Thursday.

To dismantle old buildings, contractors have to win bids and remove the materials from the site. However, some local bodies had fixed large sums as fee for this. This had created hurdles in dismantling of old school buildings in various places.

Steps should be taken according to laws so that the old structures can be dismantled without delay. Failing this, the structures will collapse. Those concerned should take action urgent action in the matter. Besides local bodies, the people should also be watchful in this regard, the Minister said.