Tura, July 7: The Meghalaya Government has initiated another major step towards strengthening school infrastructure by directing all Government and SSA Lower Primary and Upper Primary schools in West Garo Hills to immediately begin the construction of rainwater harvesting systems and ramps with handrails.
The directive, issued by the Office of the District Mission Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha, West Garo Hills, follows the approval of the projects under the Project Approval Board (PAB) 2026-27.
Schools have been instructed to commence the works immediately and ensure completion by August 2026.
The initiative aims to improve school facilities by making campuses more accessible for children with disabilities while promoting sustainable water conservation.
The approved rainwater harvesting systems will include rooftop collection arrangements, gutters, downpipes, filtration units and storage or recharge structures.
At the same time, ramps with handrails will be constructed in accordance with prescribed accessibility and barrier-free norms to provide easier access to classrooms.
The order further directs Heads of Schools, Cluster Resource Coordinators (CWC) and Junior Engineers (JE) to closely supervise the implementation of the works to maintain quality and ensure compliance with technical specifications.
Schools have also been instructed to submit monthly physical and financial progress reports along with photographic documentation before, during and after completion.
Upon completion, certified completion certificates, expenditure statements, bills, vouchers and bank account details will have to be submitted for the release of payments.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has consistently emphasised the government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure. “Our focus is to ensure that every child studies in a school with better infrastructure, improved facilities and a conducive learning environment. We are making sustained investments to transform government schools across Meghalaya,” CM Sangma said.
Officials said the latest directive is part of the government’s broader efforts to modernise school infrastructure across Meghalaya by creating safer, more inclusive and environmentally sustainable learning spaces for students.
