Muzaffarnagar: A school safety audit is underway across government educational institutions in Muzaffarnagar following a High Court order, with authorities aiming to complete the entire exercise by October 28. Of the 289 schools identified for inspection, audits have been completed at 247 composite schools and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas. Inspections remain pending at 42 government high schools and intermediate colleges.
The campaign, which began on September 8, is focused on assessing school infrastructure and preparedness to protect students in emergencies.
Nine Special Teams Examine Safety Standards
Nine dedicated teams, working under the supervision of the Chief Development Officer, Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) and District Inspector of Schools (DIOS), are inspecting buildings, fire safety equipment and disaster management arrangements.
The teams are examining whether schools meet essential safety requirements and identifying shortcomings that may need corrective action. Officials are targeting October 28 to complete inspections at all remaining institutions.
How Are Technology and Expert Assessments Supporting the Audit?
Under the leadership of district IT/MIS official Sheeja Khanam, the audit teams are documenting their findings through a mobile application, GPS, geotagging, and photographic and video evidence. Senior officials are monitoring progress through an online dashboard, enabling them to track inspections and review the information collected.
On Friday, District Programme Manager Gulzar and Sheeja Khanam reviewed the audit process at a Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya. Regional accounts examiner Vinay Sharma, structural engineer Vishal Bhardwaj and fire safety expert Zaheer Hussain also examined the school’s safety arrangements.
Staff Training and Corrective Measures Included
Alongside identifying safety gaps, the team provided school staff with training in disaster management. The exercise is intended not only to assess existing arrangements but also to improve preparedness for emergencies.
Officials said the findings compiled in the audit reports would be used to strengthen safety measures at schools. The administration is working to complete the remaining inspections within the stipulated deadline and ensure that identified deficiencies receive attention.
Reported by: Rohit
