Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation’s Gender Policy Lab is conducting safety audits at its 417 schools to identify infrastructure gaps, assess physical and environmental risks, and recommend improvements.
“This is a continuous process, not a one-time inspection,” said K A N Legis, head of the Gender Policy Lab. In one recent inspection, officials found construction debris dumped inside a school campus and noted that workers could enter the premises, Legis said. “GCC assistant engineers and school staff are open to our suggestions, so many issues we identify are being resolved quickly,” she said. “If there are people causing trouble in those areas, the Singappen Special Force carries out regular patrols there,” Legis said.
The exercise follows reports of shortcomings in some schools, including girls being asked to leave class while menstruating, poor toilet facilities and limited awareness of menstrual health. The audit, which began last month, assesses child protection systems and students’ psychosocial safety too. The problem was addressed immediately. For safety concerns beyond school grounds, the lab seeks support from the Singappen Special Force. Officials have identified poorly lit areas near schools and asked students whether they feel safe on the journey home.