NHRC issues notice to Chhattisgarh over unsafe student river crossing

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Chhattisgarh government following reports that schoolchildren in the Gariyaband district are forced to use a hazardous makeshift crossing to reach school.

In the Mainpur Block area, students from Khambhatha and surrounding settlements must scale a narrow, slippery iron ladder attached to an unfinished 300-metre bridge to cross the Pairi River. The bridge, which connects Deharguda and Khambhatha, has reportedly been under construction for nearly six years. Despite previous assurances from authorities that the project would be completed within six months, the structure remains unfinished.

The situation is particularly dangerous during the monsoon season, as the river can transform into a torrent. The NHRC has requested a detailed report from the Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary on the matter within two weeks, noting that the reported conditions raise serious human rights concerns regarding the safety and education of the children.