CHENNAI: The upcoming Assembly elections is set to give facelifts to schools run by the state govt and Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC). School managements have been asked to ensure that adequate water supply, ramp facilities, clean toilets and round-the-clock power supply are in place before they turn into polling booths.According to returning officers, the number of polling stations was between 250 to 350 in each zone, of which more than 90% were schools.In collaboration with GCC zonal officials, they have started visiting schools and other polling stations, taking stock of facilities and submitting their requirements to the corporation.“We have taken stock of the number of fans, lights, toilets, dustbins, water dispensers and condition of desks and benches. There will be two more inspections before polls,” said Vijayalakshmi, deputy returning officer for Mylapore constituency.In Adyar zone, under Velachery constituency, requests for temporary ramps have been made. “Not all schools have ramp facilities for persons with disabilities. Once the exams are over, GCC will address the requirement,” said Adyar zonal officer Senthil Kumaran.Request for wheelchairs has also been submitted to the corporation. “The numbers are being finalised,” said Lakshmi Priya, a deputy returning officer.Meanwhile, school heads have expressed concerns over the condition of institutions once the polls end.“After every election, it takes an entire day to remove the candidates’ posters pasted on walls and clear litter from classrooms. Schools receive no support to clear the mess. Election officials must extend post-poll assistance too,” a headmaster said.When asked, Chennai chief education officer M Kabir said steps were being taken to address the issue.
