Khandahata Government Primary School: A Struggle for Basic Facilities in Jajpur

Khandahata Government Primary School in Jajpur is facing significant challenges due to poor sanitation and inadequate infrastructure. Established in 1972, the school serves 46 students but lacks basic facilities such as usable toilets and adequate classrooms. Parents are concerned about the unsafe environment, with students forced to relieve themselves outdoors. Despite repeated requests for improvements, the school has not received government assistance in five years. Local authorities are being approached for urgent action to address these pressing issues. Read on to learn more about the struggles of this institution and the efforts being made for change.

By Ambika Singh Sep 30, 2026, 09:20 IST

Challenging Conditions at Khandahata Government Primary School

By Harshabardhan Behera

Jajpur: The Khandahata Government Primary School, located in Ward 26 of Byasanagar Municipality, is grappling with severe sanitation issues and insufficient infrastructure, leaving its students in a perilous learning environment. Parents are increasingly worried about the absence of essential facilities at this 54-year-old school.

Founded in 1972, the institution serves 46 students from Shishu Vatika to Class V but is constrained to just two classrooms. It operates with only two teachers, including the headmistress. The school is devoid of functional toilets, adequate classroom space, and a complete boundary wall. The only toilet available is locked due to cracks in its walls and broken floor tiles, rendering it unsafe for use.

As a result, students are reportedly compelled to relieve themselves in the open. An old, dilapidated structure with an asbestos roof on the premises poses additional safety hazards. The incomplete boundary wall allows rainwater and drainage to flood the area, creating damp conditions. Residents have also reported frequent sightings of venomous snakes. Furthermore, the school lacks a dedicated safe drinking water source, forcing students to rely on piped water from the Public Health department.

The mid-day meal is prepared in a rundown room, with students eating on the verandah due to the absence of a proper dining area. Headmistress Lipsarani Samal mentioned that the school has not received any government funding in the last five years, despite regular reports highlighting its issues to higher authorities. Bijay Kumar Behera, president of the school management committee, stated that the school has faced numerous challenges for years, despite persistent requests for improvements.

Rabindra Rout, a parent and Ward 26 councillor, indicated that the local legislator has been contacted regarding the construction of a boundary wall, additional classrooms, and a road. "Funds have already been allocated for the road construction within the school premises. We will reach out to higher authorities concerning the other issues," he said. Jajpur District Education Officer Maheswar Sahu expressed that he was unaware of these problems until informed by the reporter and assured that efforts would be made to address them soon.