India is a big country with a growing population as a concerning issue. There is an increase in construction activities such as, construction of flats, malls bungalows and so on. With land becoming scarce in these areas there is an increase in traffic, and problems of parking, pollution, and so on.
One of India’s biggest cities Ahmedabad, with a population of 52,52,197 has total number of schools at around 2323. (Gujarat Revenue Department) It has been reported that in the country, 52% schools do not have a playground. The same may be applied to Ahmedabad as well (India together). It is also interesting to see a British study (Find Articles) suggesting almost 60% to 80% students injured on school playgrounds. These same playgrounds generally have an important role in mental and physical growth of a child. When children are not involved in any co-curricular activities, they may also suffer from depression, and the proportion of such children according to an Australian study is 8.4%. (Medicine Net)
If a school does not have a playground, in an emergency situation, school authorities can make provisions for a party-plot, garden, or any such empty space close by so that children can be assembled during emergencies and their safety/security can be assured.
Sources:
- http://revenuedepartment.gujarat.gov.in/applications/content.asp?Content_Id=763&T itle_Id=195&language=G&SiteID=8
- http://www.indiatogether.org/2004/aug/edu-firesafe.htm
- http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1145/is_n4_v33/ai_20552693/
- http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=118570
