4 schools get GMC notices

Guwahati: Four private schools in the city that had received a notice from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation  (GMC) for not adhering to the safety norms and building by laws, have appealed to the authorities to provide them one year's time to bring about the required changes in their schools.

The GMC had issued notices to about 13 private schools in the city for flouting safety norms such as fire extinguishers and water tanks for fire emergencies, additional staircase and a proper evacuation plan in case of earthquake. 

 The schools also lacked properly marked entry and exit route and even an open space.. The GMC is closing down private schools that are situated in buildings meant only for residential purposes.

In a meeting organized by the four school authorities on Sunday, they said classes have started in almost all schools and if the schools are shut down now, the students will suffer.

Biren Das, principal of a private school said, "There are many schools in the city that are situated in residential buildings and if one is to abide by all the by laws, almost all the schools in the city will close down."

He added, "We too want the safety of the students but, the authorities should give us more time instead of closing down the schools." The school owners are finding it difficult to find another alternative building for their schools in such a short time as the new building needs to have an open space and also meet all the requirements including laid down by the GMC.

Kamaleshwar  Kalita  member of another private school said, "Closing down those schools is definitely not a solution; the authorities should take a decision considering the children's future."