BHUBANESHWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has taken a significant step towards the reconstruction of Bahanaga High School in Balasore. With a compassionate gesture, he has sanctioned a generous sum of Rs. 2.49 crore from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. This decision follows the unfortunate utilization of the school premises as a temporary morgue due to a tragic train accident on June 2.

The official statement released by the Chief Minister's office affirms that the transformation of Bahanga High School is a crucial element of the 5T initiative. Under this initiative, the school will undergo a remarkable metamorphosis to enhance its facilities and elevate its educational standards.

To ensure the successful execution of this transformational project, Secretary VK Pandian, responsible for the 5T Transformational initiative, spearheaded an extensive consultation session. This session included students, teachers, public representatives, the school management committee, and the District Collector. Following the Chief Minister's instructions, these discussions aimed to gather valuable insights and perspectives.

On June 9, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik gave his approval for the conversion of the school into a model institution (Adarsha school) as part of the 5T initiative. To proceed further, he directed Balasore Collector Dattatraya Bhausahe.

It is to be noted that following the terrible incidence of a triple train catastrophe on June 2 involving the Chennai-bound Coromandel Express, the Howrah-bound Shalimar Express, and a cargo train, which claimed the lives of 288 persons, the Bahanaga High School accommodated bodies in six classrooms.

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