For some years now, seasonal spring water has been bothering the school authority as well as the parents of the students of Rangthangling Primary School in Tsirang. Due to the underground water, the school’s ground is filled with stagnant water. The concerned parents are now asking for the district administration’s support to resolve the problem and create a safe learning environment for their children.
The assembly ground of the school remains underutilized for about three months every year as it is filled with stagnant water. And the water level increases significantly when the monsoon is at its peak. The school started facing the problem some six years ago.
As temporary measures, the school management has placed stepping stones and constructed drains. But the parents say the risks still loom large.
“By chance, if they fail to step on stones, there is a risk of falling in the muddy water and it is not very hygienic also. And some children are falling down and there are chances of their legs getting fractured or major sprain. I have seen from my own eyes some children they get totally wet,” said Lungten Jamtsho, from Rangthangling Gewog in Tsirang.
“When teachers send students home to change their clothes, it is difficult, especially for those living far. Moreover, mosquitoes breed for months in the stagnant water, which is not healthy for our children,” said another parent. They say they have to spend their days worrying whenever it rains.
According to the school authority, due to the waterlogged ground, it cannot conduct outdoor activities as expected.
Today, the daily morning assembly takes place in the dining hall.
The matter has been forwarded to the district administration several times. Nothing has come of it yet. However, an official from the district education sector says the works to drain the stagnant water will be carried out soon.
Established in 2014, today, Rangthangling Primary School has over 160 students.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
