Faced with persistent inaction and growing safety concerns, parents of students at Tilak Marg Hindi and Marathi School in Ghatkopar have moved their children into a newly constructed Mumbai Public School (MPS) building, despite the lack of official approval. The shift follows the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) formally declaring the decades-old school building unsafe on 25 June.
The civic school, which serves over 350 students from kindergarten to Class 8, had continued operations in its deteriorating structure even after repeated complaints from parents over the past three years. The building, supported by rusted iron beams and temporary tin walls, was described as a serious hazard by parents, especially for young children crammed into makeshift classrooms. Although a new MPS building stands ready on the same premises, the BMC has withheld access citing the absence of a fire safety clearance and occupation certificate. Frustrated by bureaucratic delays and what they allege is administrative apathy, parents took matters into their own hands on Monday, moving benches and students into the new structure to resume classes.
Officials confirmed that while construction is complete, a water tank installation and other final approvals are pending. Despite this, the growing urgency for a safe learning environment has left parents unwilling to wait. They rejected suggestions from civic authorities to temporarily shift students to another MPS located nearly 20 minutes away, citing logistical difficulties and disruption to children’s routines. Political representatives have also raised concerns, questioning why a newly built government-funded school lies unused while children remain at risk. Allegations have emerged that the BMC might be considering handing over the new building to a private institution—a claim that remains unverified.
For now, parents say they will continue to use the new building regardless of civic objections. The incident highlights persistent gaps in urban school infrastructure management and raises pressing questions about children’s safety, public accountability, and the timely use of taxpayer-funded facilities.
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