Structural audits flag 14 government schools for demolition; seven get nod

Structural audits have found 14 Delhi government school buildings requiring demolition, with the government approving partial or complete razing of seven. The Directorate of Education (DoE) is assessing a total of 108 schools as part of the exercise.  

The exercise is part of a drive launched by the Delhi government to assess the condition of government school infrastructure after Chief Minister Rekha Gupta last year directed officials to improve the overall state of government schools. The DoE undertook a comprehensive digital profiling of existing school buildings, including third-party structural audits, to identify buildings requiring demolition and redevelopment. 

Officials said most of the identified school buildings are around 40 years old and in a dilapidated condition. Some schools are functioning from tin sheds or partially constructed buildings. 

“The exercise includes the assessment of the structural stability and overall condition of each building, detailed profiling of fixtures and furniture, and documentation of electrical, plumbing, fire safety and other essential installations. The profiling also evaluates the accessibility features of school premises in accordance with universal accessibility standards to ensure an inclusive learning environment for all students, including children with disabilities,” a DoE official said. 

Of the 108 schools, third-party audit reports have been submitted for 54. According to these reports, buildings in 14 schools require demolition. “Out of the 14 schools, the government has approved the demolition of either full or some blocks of seven schools over the last 45 days. Approvals for the remaining seven schools are under process and are likely to be completed in the coming weeks,” the official added.   

The seven schools are located in Chilla village, Jasola village, Karala, Baprola, Matiala, Neb Sarai and Shivaji Park. 

According to the official, audit reports for the remaining 54 schools are expected shortly, after which further action will be taken. 

“After demolition, the government plans to construct permanent Ground+4, earthquake-resistant school buildings with the aim of completing the work within a year,” said the official. During the construction period, students will be accommodated in other blocks of the same school or shifted to nearby schools. 

The DoE also plans to maximise classroom capacity through the redevelopment of these school sites. The official said proposals have been initiated to construct Ground+4 permanent school buildings on 27 vacant land parcels under the department. The projects are expected to increase classroom capacity, reduce overcrowding and improve the student-classroom ratio.