Key Facts
In a major step to enhance school safety, the District Disaster Management and Education Department in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, have issued directives for all schools to remain on high alert. Every school must now display emergency helpline numbers on the main information board at the campus entrance. This move aims to ensure immediate assistance during any untoward incident or disaster.
Details of the Directive
District Disaster Management Coordinator of DIET Solan, Pankaj Dhaota, stated that displaying helpline numbers on boards is mandatory. The numbers include:
- 1077 – District Disaster Control Room
- 112 – All India Emergency Number
- 100 – Police
- 101 – Fire Service
- 108 – Ambulance
- 1930 – Cyber Crime Helpline
- 1098 – Child Helpline
Additionally, schools have been instructed to secure heavy items kept in classrooms and premises. Often during earthquakes or other disasters, heavy objects fall, increasing the risk of debris. To prevent this, schools must fix cupboards, shelves, and other heavy furniture to walls. Laboratories must have separate secure cabinets for hazardous chemicals, and heavy trophies should be stored in designated blocks.
Impact and Implementation
Last year, the district allocated a special fund of ₹23,81,444 to approximately 1,098 schools under two heads. This fund was used for spreading awareness among students, preparing disaster management plans, organizing competitions, and training teachers. It also covered repairs of school building roofs and staircases, fixing cupboards to walls, and creating boards with emergency numbers.
Deputy Director of Higher Education and Elementary Education, Kumari Rita Gupta, has instructed all school in-charges to complete 100% information on the School Safety App. Schools must upload their disaster management plans and photos of safety arrangements on this app. The emergency numbers must also be pasted on the school information board.
What Readers Should Know
These measures are part of a proactive approach to disaster preparedness in Solan district. Schools are now required to not only display emergency contacts but also ensure physical infrastructure is safe. Parents and students should be aware of these numbers and the safety plans in place. The initiative sets a precedent for other districts in Himachal Pradesh to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which emergency numbers must be displayed on school boards in Solan?
Schools must display 1077 (District Disaster Control Room), 112 (All India Emergency), 100 (Police), 101 (Fire), 108 (Ambulance), 1930 (Cyber Crime), and others.
What other safety measures are schools required to take?
Schools must secure heavy items in classrooms and labs, repair buildings, fix cupboards to walls, and prepare disaster management plans.
How much fund was allocated to schools last year?
Last year, ₹23,81,444 was distributed to about 1,098 schools for awareness, training, and infrastructure improvements.