RTI highlights delays, discrepancies in construction of several schools under RMSA Scheme
Rehan Qayoom Mir
Budgam, Aug 10 : Several school buildings in Budgam district, initially slated for completion under the RMSA (Rural Modern School Architecture) Scheme, remain unfinished, severely affecting students’ education and safety.
An RTI report filed by Gulam Mohi Ud Din, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), highlights the delays and discrepancies in the construction of these school buildings.
The RTI report reveals several key issues:
Paharthan School: Originally approved at a cost of Rs 94.05 lakh, with an expenditure of Rs 84.64 lakh to date, the project has a remaining liability of Rs 9.41 lakh and requires additional funding of Rs 9.41 lakh for completion.
GHS Daharmuna: This project has been completed and handed over, with no further expenditures required.
GHS Galwanpora: With a revised cost of Rs 132.03 lakh, the structural work is complete, but the project lacks finishing touches due to a shortfall of Rs 61.49 lakh.
GHS Soibugh: Initially costing Rs 94.05 lakh, the project has seen an expenditure of Rs 94.04 lakh but requires an additional Rs 44.80 lakh for completion, including finishing items.
GHS N.S. Pora: Similar to GHS Daharmuna, this project is completed with no additional funding required.
HS Shanipora: The building has incurred costs of Rs 84.64 lakh against a revised estimate of Rs 132.03 lakh and requires an additional Rs 47.39 lakh for completion.
Community members have expressed concern that the incomplete buildings have become hotspots for illicit activities, including drug use by local youth. They urge the administration to prioritise the completion of these projects to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for children—(KNO)
