Siliguri, 21st November: Officials from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department faced resistance from local residents and school authorities while attempting to install a water tank in the Ektiasal Tileswari Adhikary High School ground on ISKCON Road in Siliguri. The initiative, part of a water supply project, ran into objections during the officials’ visit to the area on Thursday.
Local residents quickly gathered to oppose the project, expressing concerns that the water tank should not be installed on the school grounds. Teachers from the school also voiced their objections, pointing out that the location was the main entrance to the school. They suggested that an alternative site for the tank would be more suitable to avoid disrupting access to the school.
The school authorities further claimed that the land had been donated for educational purposes and is used by students for sports activities. They also raised concerns that the construction work might lead to the removal of several trees in the area.
In response, PHE officials clarified that the project was being carried out under the instructions of the District Magistrate. They assured the community that the water tank would occupy only a small portion of the field and that efforts would be made to minimize any environmental impact. Additionally, to address the school’s concerns, the officials promised to build a proper road leading to the school for the convenience of students.