‘Appalling apathy’: 228 students face wildlife risk, Bombay High Court raps government

The Bombay High Court has expressed severe disappointment over the Maharashtra government's failure to provide safe transport for 228 students from eight villages traveling to five schools situated in areas prone to wildlife attacks. The court, comprising Justices Sharmila U Deshmukh and Neeraj P Dhote, has labeled the situation "appalling" and sought an explanation from the district collector and forest department for their non-compliance with the court's April 2 directions.

The students, some of whom walk up to 30 kilometers daily to reach their schools, face continuous exposure to wildlife as no transport facilities are available. The court emphasized that the state government's apathy towards the safety of these children is deeply concerning, particularly given the lack of even minimal transport provisions for them.

The matter has been set for further hearing on August 25, with the court warning that it may take a serious stance if the authorities fail to provide satisfactory explanations for their non-compliance.