Government School Roof Plaster Collapse Injures Five Students in Rajasthan

Jaipur, January 28, 2025: A tragic incident unfolded in Bundi district’s Nainwa area when the recently repaired plaster of a government school roof collapsed during school hours, leaving five students injured. The event highlights the deteriorating condition of government school buildings in Rajasthan and raises serious concerns about the quality of repair and construction work undertaken.

Incident Details

The collapse occurred at the Government Primary School in Fatukda village while students were in the classroom. The injured students, who were rushed to the local hospital, include Ramkesh Berwa, Aman, and Lav Kush Berwa, with the latter two sustaining head injuries requiring stitches. They were later referred to the government hospital in Sawai Madhopur for further treatment. Two other students, Prince Meena and Shaitan Berwa, received minor injuries and were discharged after first aid.

According to Priyanka Choudhary, the school’s teacher, the roof collapsed without warning during class hours. She added,
“Had more students been inside, the incident could have been much worse. The structure’s condition had been previously reported to the authorities.”

Structural Negligence Exposed

The school, which accommodates 47 students across grades one to five with just two classrooms, underwent repairs in December 2024 during the winter break. The repair budget of ₹2 lakh, approved under disaster management funds, was executed by the Gram Panchayat.

Reports reveal that:

• Old plaster was not removed before the new plaster was applied.
• Proper curing (watering) of the plaster was neglected.
• Despite complaints from the school staff, the responsible Junior Engineer (JEN) failed to take corrective measures.

This substandard work led to the plaster collapsing within 25 days of completion, endangering the lives of young students.

Officials Speak

Seema Meena, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Nainwa, expressed concern over the incident, stating:
“A thorough investigation will be conducted, and strict action will be taken against those found responsible.”

Dr. Mahaveer Sharma, Chief District Education Officer (CDEO), Bundi, assured that:
“A committee will be formed to investigate the matter. We will take stringent measures to ensure such incidents are not repeated. Schools have been directed to report any complaints about construction quality to the district office at 63-67577006.”

Government School Roof Plaster Collapse Injures Five Students in Rajasthan