What Actions is Rajasthan CM Taking for Building Safety?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Rajasthan government prioritizes the safety of public buildings.
- Immediate inspections are mandated following the tragic school incident.
- Substantial budget allocations are made for repairs and construction.
- Community involvement in safety and maintenance is encouraged.
- Focus on Anganwadi centres highlights the commitment to children's welfare.
Jaipur, July 25 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Bhajan Lal Sharma, held a crucial meeting at his residence on Friday following the unfortunate event at a government school in Peepalodi village, located in the Jhalawar district.
Expressing profound sorrow over the tragic loss of young lives, he underscored the pressing need for structural audits and necessary repairs of public buildings throughout the state.
He instructed relevant departments—such as the District Administration, Public Works Department, operational agencies, SAMSA, and RSRDC—to carry out immediate inspections of government facilities, especially schools, hospitals, and other public infrastructures.
An expert committee will be established to conduct these thorough inspections and deliver a comprehensive report within five days.
"The safety of our citizens is the highest priority for the state government. We must take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents from recurring," stated the Chief Minister.
CM Sharma mandated re-inspections of recently repaired structures, asserting that strict action must be enforced against those found responsible for any structural inadequacies or quality issues.
If any buildings are deemed unsafe, he ordered their immediate evacuation and the relocation of affected individuals to safer areas.
He also called upon the Education Department to arrange alternatives for students in compromised schools, such as holding temporary classes in community centers or other secure venues.
Emphasizing the government's dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure, the Chief Minister revealed that the 2024–25 budget allocated Rs 250 crore for repairing facilities in government educational institutions, including 750 schools.
Moreover, Rs 375 crore has been set aside in the 2025–26 budget for the construction and renovation of new buildings for dilapidated and building-less schools.
Each Assembly constituency will receive Rs 28 crore for development works, which can also be utilized for building repairs. Funds from the Dang, Magra, Mewat Area Development Scheme, along with MLA-LAD, MP-LAD, and Tribal Area Development schemes, can also be mobilized for these initiatives.
The Chief Minister proposed the creation of a lasting framework for annual safety audits of all government buildings, which would involve a high-level committee of experts.
He also advocated for training school management committees and local panchayats in building safety and maintenance to encourage community involvement.
Special attention was directed towards the state of Anganwadi centres. Mr. Sharma ordered mandatory inspections of all such facilities and mentioned that Rs 50 crore has been allocated in the 2025–26 budget for the repair of buildings for 5,000 Anganwadi centres across the state.
Referring to the incident at Peepalodi as "heart-wrenching and deeply saddening," the Chief Minister remarked, "The tragic loss of innocent children has profoundly affected us all. The state government stands resolutely with the grieving families during this sorrowful period."
He confirmed that the injured individuals are receiving the best available medical care and that Education Minister Madan Dilawar has been dispatched to manage the situation on-site.
A two-minute silence was observed during the meeting to honor the deceased children, and prayers were offered for their peace. Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, along with senior officials from various departments, attended the meeting.
Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and other key officials joined via video conference.