PRAYAGRAJ, Sept. 19 -- Divisional commissioner Lokesh M on Friday directed education officials to strengthen safety and basic infrastructure at parishad schools across the Prayagraj district, including deploying Shiksha Mitras to help children cross busy roads near 166 schools. The directions were issued during a detailed review of the basic education system held at the Commissioner's office. Officials informed the commissioner that 2,832 parishad schools are operating across 24 development blocks in the district, of which 166 schools require children to cross main roads while travelling between their villages and schools. Following earlier instructions, Shiksha Mitras have been deployed at all 166 schools to escort children safely to school and back. In the Jasra block, local residents and traders have also joined the initiative, with traders in some areas using red flags to help children cross roads safely. The commissioner directed officials to maintain the arrangement and continuously monitor its effectiveness. During the meeting, officials reported that around 31 schools lack proper approach roads, 11 face persistent waterlogging and about 152 schools either lack electricity connections or have faulty electrical infrastructure. Taking cognizance of these discrepancies, the commissioner asked the district magistrate and chief development officer to address the issues on priority. He also expressed satisfaction over the removal of high-tension electricity lines from the vicinity of 44 schools. Facilities for children with disabilities were separately reviewed. Officials reported that around 184 schools lack accessible toilets, prompting the commissioner to direct that ramps and handrails be installed wherever required and separate accessible toilets be constructed at feasible locations without delay. He expressed strong displeasure over inadequate cleanliness and toilet sanitation in a large number of schools, noting reports that sanitation workers were not performing their duties regularly. He stated that the district panchayat raj officer (DPRO) is responsible for sanitation arrangements in gram panchayat areas, while the concerned municipal corporation officials are responsible for schools within municipal limits....