Siliguri, Nov 21: Officials of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department faced opposition from local residents and school authorities while attempting to install a water tank on the grounds of Ektiasal Tileshwari Adhikari High School on Iskon Road in Siliguri. The initiative under the water supply project ran into objections during the officials’ visit to the area on Thursday.
Local residents immediately gathered to oppose the project, expressing concern that a water tank should not be installed on the school grounds. School teachers also expressed their objections, pointing out that the location is the main entrance of the school. They suggested that an alternate location for the tank would be more suitable to avoid obstructing access to the school.
The school authorities further claimed that the land was donated for educational purposes and is used by students for sports activities. They also expressed concern that several trees in the area might be cut down due to the construction work.
In response, PHE officials clarified that the project was being carried out under the directions of the District Magistrate. They assured the community that the water tank would occupy only a small portion of the grounds and efforts would be made to minimise any impact on the environment. Moreover, to address the school’s concerns, the officials promised to build a proper road leading to the school for the convenience of the students.
