2 Students Die At Palghar Ashram School In 20 Days

A six-year-old student at the Masvan tribal ashram school in Palghar, Maharashtra, died after running a fever for two days. The child's father alleged that the school administration did not inform the family about the death, and they learned about it from another student. This incident is one of two student deaths at the residential school in the past 20 days.

The boy had attended school on Monday, but his condition worsened suddenly, and he began experiencing breathing difficulties. He died while being taken to a hospital. The school administration's failure to inform the family has raised concerns about the school's communication and emergency response protocols.

Twenty-six students displaying mild symptoms such as cough, cold, or fever were kept under observation at the Maswan Primary Health Centre as a precaution. Officials reported that their condition remained stable. The deaths of two children within a short span have raised concerns over the health and safety arrangements at tribal residential schools run under the Tribal Development Department.

Integrated Tribal Development Project officer Vishal Khatri visited the Maswan school and the health centre, where he interacted with students undergoing treatment and their parents. During his inspection, he found serious shortcomings in drinking water facilities and other basic amenities and reprimanded the school management.

District Health Officer Dr. Santosh Chaudhary was directed to ensure immediate medical examinations for all students and provide treatment to those found unwell. A fresh health check-up drive was conducted at the Maswan ashram school, and essential measures for campus sanitation and water purification are being carried out.

The school currently accommodates 395 residential students among a total enrolment of 449. A medical team carried out health screenings on the premises. The latest incident has added to broader concerns surrounding deaths in Maharashtra's ashram schools. Officials reported earlier this month that 584 students had died over the previous two years across state-run and government-aided residential facilities.

The reported causes of these deaths included snakebites, sickle cell disease, and serious medical conditions. The incident has sparked concerns about the living conditions and healthcare facilities provided to students in these residential schools. The government has been urged to take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of students in these institutions.

The deaths of two students at the Palghar ashram school have highlighted the need for improved health and safety arrangements in tribal residential schools. The government must take steps to address the shortcomings in these institutions and ensure that students receive proper care and attention. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of providing adequate healthcare facilities and emergency response protocols in residential schools.

In conclusion, the deaths of two students at the Palghar ashram school have raised concerns about the health and safety arrangements in tribal residential schools. The government must take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of students in these institutions. The incident highlights the need for improved healthcare facilities, emergency response protocols, and communication between schools and families.