Teacher, 32 students killed in Peshawar school roof collapse

PESHAWAR: A roof collapse at Al-Khair School in the Afridi Abad area of Peshawar's provincial capital claimed at least 33 lives on Thursday, including 32 students and a female teacher. Lady Reading Hospital spokesperson Muhammad Asim reported the death toll rising from 28 to 33. The deceased consisted of 32 students aged between seven and 14, and the female teacher.

Twenty injured children were also admitted to the hospital, most of whom have since recovered. Three children with severe head injuries continue receiving treatment. Peshawar Deputy Commissioner Afaq Wazir confirmed that the rescue operation had concluded, stating that all debris had been cleared and no further injured children remained at the scene.

An emergency was declared at the hospital following the incident. Reports indicate that students were in their classrooms when the collapse occurred. Rescue officials stated that the collapse happened when the roof of a higher floor gave way, crushing two storeys of the building. KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed grief over the incident, calling for a detailed report on the cause of the collapse and directing authorities to ensure the safety of educational institutions across the province.

The Elementary and Secondary Education Department has formed a committee to investigate the incident, tasked with submitting a report on the matter.