Landslide destroys classrooms in Mandi school, students at risk

Poonch, Aug 21:  Continuous heavy rainfall triggered a devastating landslide in Mandi area severely damaging Government Middle School Mandi, causing two classrooms to collapse completely.The incident occurred during the night, sparing the lives of students and staff. However, the damage has left the school building unsafe and highly vulnerable, posing risks not only to children and teachers but also to nearby households.According to the Head Teacher in charge, the situation has created an alarming environment. Teachers are currently compelled to conduct classes in the open, exposing children to rain, heat, and unsafe conditions. Students are reported to be frightened, and their education has been severely disrupted.Local representatives, including community leaders, promptly visited the site and assured that immediate measures would be taken to repair the damaged structure. Despite these assurances, residents expressed growing concern, pointing out that the area has faced repeated minor landslides in the past, but this latest disaster has been far more destructive.With weather forecasts predicting further heavy rainfall in the coming week, fears of another landslide and potential casualties are rising. The community has collectively appealed to the Education Department and the concerned authorities to release emergency funds for urgent repair and rehabilitation of the school building. They have also requested that students be shifted to a safer temporary facility until the site is declared secure.“Children should be able to study without fear. The authorities must act now to prevent a future tragedy,” a local elder stated.The situation highlights the urgent need for swift government intervention to ensure the safety of young learners and to restore normal educational activities in the region.