Orissa High Court Raises Alarm Over Safety of Historic School Building in Cuttack
The Orissa High Court has voiced grave concern regarding the precarious condition of a British-era building on Mission Road in Cuttack, which currently accommodates St. Xavier School. This development follows the court's examination of a critical report submitted by the Cuttack district administration on April 16.
Shocking Findings from School Safety Inspections
A division bench comprising Justices K.R. Mohapatra and V. Narasingh reviewed the administration's findings, which stemmed from earlier directives to inspect safety conditions across all schools in the city. "The report reveals a shocking state of affairs," the bench remarked, highlighting that inspections of 48 schools had been completed thus far.
The court specifically singled out St. Xavier School at Mission Road, Buxi Bazar, noting that the institution is functioning in an "almost dilapidated building" without a structural stability report. This alarming observation underscores the immediate risks to students, teachers, and staff.
Authorities Pledge Action and Court Sets Deadline
During the proceedings, Additional District Magistrate Kamaljit Dash assured the court that necessary measures would be implemented to ensure the safety of all individuals at the school. "If required, alternative arrangements will be made in consultation with the school management," Dash affirmed.
Taking note of this assurance, the bench has directed the authorities to submit a detailed action-taken report by May 4. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on May 7, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this critical safety issue.
Historical Significance and Longstanding Safety Concerns
The building in question is a 143-year-old structure, originally constructed in 1883 by civil surgeon Dr. W.D. Stewart as a residence. It stands as an example of Indo-European architecture and has a rich historical lineage:
- Donated to the Baptist Mission in 1887 for educational purposes.
- Became Christ Collegiate School in 1950.
- Currently houses St. Xavier School since January 23, 2026.
Official records indicate that safety concerns are not new. As early as February 20, 2016, the Public Works Department warned that the structure was in a dangerously dilapidated condition and could collapse at any time. Consequently, the school was relocated to a nearby facility in 2019.
Despite these warnings, the building was reopened after purported repairs, with St. Xavier School resuming operations there earlier this year. This move has reignited debates over balancing preservation with safety.
Heritage Preservation Versus Structural Safety
The tension between preserving historical architecture and ensuring public safety has been a focal point. In 2019, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by lawyer Shivsankar Mohanty sought to have the structure declared a heritage building under the Orissa Municipal Corporation Act, citing its architectural and historical significance.
The High Court had previously directed the civic body to act on this plea, highlighting the ongoing struggle to protect Cuttack's cultural heritage while addressing urgent safety imperatives. The current situation underscores the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes human safety without neglecting historical conservation.
As the May 4 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the district administration to deliver concrete steps that will safeguard the school community while respecting the building's storied past.
