PWD suspends new roofing work at several govt schools

MAPUSA
Caught off guard by an early onset of the monsoon, the Public Works Department (PWD) has put a temporary halt on roofing work across a majority of government schools in the State.

The department has now directed contractors to complete ongoing roofing at open sites within two days, as several schools struggle to accommodate students with monsoon rains already lashing the State.

With schools reopening on Wednesday, many government schools have been scrambling to make last-minute arrangements as classrooms remain roofless or under repair.

The situation has caused distress among teachers, students and parents, raising concerns about safety and readiness for the new academic year.

The PWD had undertaken roofing repairs at approximately 250 government schools across the State, a massive infrastructure push aimed at improving classroom conditions ahead of the monsoon.

However, the unseasonal rains disrupted ongoing work, especially at sites where roofs had already been dismantled for repairs.

PWD Chief Engineer Vallabh Pai confirmed that around 40 schools are currently mid-way through roofing work and emphasised that immediate action is being taken to cover those sites.

“This time the rains arrived earlier than expected, and that disrupted the schedule. Once a roof is opened, it typically takes at least 8 to 10 days to complete the work. We’ve now told contractors to suspend opening any more schools and focus entirely on completing the ones that are already exposed. They’ve been given two days to complete these tasks,” Pai said.

According to sources, some government schools have made alternate arrangements to hold classes.

Like in Sal, Bicholim and Taleigao, local officials have identified alternative premises to temporarily accommodate students until the roofing work is completed.

In a clear directive, the PWD has now suspended any new roofing projects until the end of the monsoon season. Only emergency patchwork will be taken up if necessary.

The department is currently prioritising safety, with the Chief Engineer stating that no new school roofs will be opened until October.

“The decision has been taken in the interest of student safety. After the rains, we will resume the remaining roofing works in a phased manner,” Pai said.

To enhance durability and reduce classroom noise during rains, the PWD has adopted the use of PUF (Polyurethane Foam) roofing sheets, which are known for their insulation and soundproofing capabilities.

“PUF sheets are effective in dampening the sound of rain, which is important during monsoon months when noise levels can disrupt learning. They are also lightweight and quick to install,” explained a senior PWD engineer.