890 Schools in Maharashtra Lack Toilets for Girls, Audit Reveals Major Infrastructure Gaps

An official audit has exposed severe shortcomings in Maharashtra’s school infrastructure, with 890 schools lacking toilets for girls and several others missing basic facilities like compound walls, playgrounds and internet access.

Mumbai | March 16, 2026: A recent financial and infrastructure audit has revealed alarming deficiencies in school facilities across Maharashtra, highlighting that as many as 890 schools in the state do not have dedicated toilets for girls.

The findings have raised serious concerns about student safety, hygiene and the overall learning environment, particularly for female students. Experts warn that the absence of proper sanitation facilities can directly impact attendance and lead to higher dropout rates among girls, especially during adolescence.

The report further points to a broader infrastructure gap, noting that several schools across the state also lack essential amenities such as compound walls, playgrounds and reliable internet connectivity. These shortcomings reflect deeper systemic issues in school planning and resource allocation.

According to the audit, while significant progress has been made in expanding access to education, the quality of infrastructure has not kept pace with rising enrolment. In many rural and semi-urban areas, schools continue to operate with minimal facilities, affecting both academic and extracurricular development.

Officials indicate that nearly 0.9 percent of schools lack basic sanitation facilities for girls, while around 4.4 percent are without proper boundary walls, raising concerns about student security. Additionally, approximately 11.1 percent of schools do not have playgrounds, limiting opportunities for physical development and recreation.

The absence of internet access in a large number of schools has also been flagged as a critical issue, particularly in an era where digital learning is becoming increasingly important. Without connectivity, students are unable to benefit from online educational resources, widening the digital divide between urban and rural learners.

Education experts emphasise that access to clean and functional toilets is a fundamental requirement, not just a facility. They argue that improving sanitation infrastructure is crucial for ensuring dignity, safety and equal opportunities for girls in education.

The report has prompted calls for urgent intervention from the state government. Activists and educationists have urged authorities to prioritise infrastructure development, especially in government and aided schools, to ensure compliance with basic standards.

Officials have acknowledged the gaps and stated that efforts are being made to address the deficiencies through targeted funding and development programmes. Plans are reportedly being considered to upgrade facilities, including the construction of toilets, installation of digital infrastructure and improvement of school .

There is also a growing demand for better monitoring mechanisms to ensure that funds allocated for school infrastructure are utilised effectively. Experts suggest that regular audits and transparent reporting can help track progress and hold authorities accountable.

The issue highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to education that goes beyond enrolment numbers and focuses on quality and inclusivity. Without adequate infrastructure, the goal of providing equitable education remains incomplete.

As the state works towards improving its education system, addressing these fundamental gaps will be crucial in ensuring a safe, supportive and empowering environment for students, particularly girls, across Maharashtra.

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