Students mock 'smart schools' as they navigate filthy swimming pool in Jagraon

Jagraon, a town in Punjab's Ludhiana district, became the focus of local attention when schoolchildren were seen walking through a murky swimming pool on Kothe Khajura Road. The pool, intended as a modern facility under the government's "smart school" initiative, was filled with stagnant, dirty water, prompting the pupils to voice their disappointment.
The children, accompanied by a few teachers, chanted slogans that highlighted the gap between official promises of high‑tech, well‑maintained schools and the on‑ground reality of neglected infrastructure. Their remarks were captured by local reporters, who noted the irony of calling the institution "smart" while basic hygiene standards were lacking.
Education officials have not yet issued a formal response, but the incident adds to growing criticism across Punjab that many "smart" projects remain incomplete or poorly executed. Parents in the area have expressed concern that such conditions could affect student health and undermine confidence in government‑led education reforms.
The episode underscores a broader challenge for state authorities: ensuring that investments in digital classrooms and upgraded facilities are matched by proper maintenance and safety measures.
Local civic groups have called for an immediate clean‑up of the pool and a review of all school infrastructure projects to prevent similar lapses in the future.