St. Anthony’s High School is one of the oldest institutions in Visakhapatnam.
The famous St. Anthony’s High School and St. Anthony’s Church that date back to pre-independence era form a part of Anthony Nagar in Maharanipeta.
One of the oldest schools in the city, on a five-acre plot, St. Anthony’s High School is an institution that drew children from all walks of life. Since there was limited choice available earlier, the school appeared to be the sole option for most professors, doctors, district judges and businessmen to admit their children.
Interestingly, the school has churned out famous doctors including dermatologist G. Raghu Rama Rao.
“Even after a century, the infrastructure of the school is so strong and quality-driven as it is hard to trace a single crack in the premises. The only difference now is that those who belong to below poverty line are admitting their children to the government-aided high school,” says Karnam Prakash, Headmaster of the school and a resident of the colony for the past 30 years. He voiced concern over dearth of teachers as the Government had brought the recruitment process to a halt.
From century-old buildings to brightly-painted individual houses, Anthony Nagar consists of a blend of old and new structures where private employees, businessmen and professionals live in harmony. “The place was once an orchard where cashews and mangoes were grown extensively. Gradually, the neighbourhood became a favourite spot for people who like to tuck into the compact and quiet haven. Ganesh Chaturti is the annual festival that brings us together as we celebrate it with grandeur by installing a pandal,” says Poli Thalli, a 63-year-old resident in Anthony Nagar.
Though the main lanes of the colony appear litter-free, poor maintenance of sewage channels and stagnated drain water pose health hazard to the residents. Residents say special attention is required to unclog the drainage system. “This apart, during rainy season, we are affected by poor water quality as the drinking water gets muddy, giving way to bacterial contamination,” adds S. Rani, another resident.
Zone III Commissioner Bapi Raju; Mobile No: 9848882593; Helpdesk No: 0891-2707299.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Visakhapatnam / by Rani Devalla / Visakhapatnam – May 11th, 2016