Nearly a year ago in April 2024, Govandi residents were elated to know that M East ward’s first ever public CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) school would finally see the light of day. Over 400 students were enrolled, nearly 700 waitlisted, some were even pulled out of their existing private schools to gain the golden chance of learning at the Mumbai Public School CBSE - Natwar Parekh Compound. However, the school never got its designated building near Natwarlal Parekh Compound in time for the 2024-25 academic year. One year on, in 2025-26, the building has been erected but it still remains off limits to nearly 600 CBSE students — all because of a road.

Ready but no access

The new school building project was being overseen by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). While the authorities have finally constructed the building, they have left out the road. What was supposed to be the school`s main gate lies surrounded by heaps of garbage and a long stretch of dirt road with studded with potholes. The other, smaller gate opens next to a MHADA residency and has been shut for now.

Heaps of garbage strewn around the new school building; The new building is ready but does not have road access. PICS/Satej Shinde; Parents spot students attending classes in the corridors. Pic/By Special Arrangement