THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: General Education Minister V. Sivankutty has announced that the demolition of old school buildings across the state will be expedited. He stated that, for the first time in the state’s history, Rs 5,000 crore is being allocated for constructing new buildings in public schools.
"For the first time in the state's history, Rs 5,000 crore is being allocated for constructing new buildings in public schools. However, many old structures still remain intact in several places. Numerous schools have buildings that are over 100 years old. Typically, contractors who win the demolition bids dismantle the buildings and take away the materials. In some local bodies, a hefty fee has been fixed for this process, which has been causing delays in the demolition of old buildings," the minister said.
“We will take this matter seriously and implement the necessary legal measures. Those responsible must take immediate action on this issue.”
The minister also urged local bodies and residents to remain vigilant. Many school buildings in the state have deteriorated over time and now pose significant safety risks.