Peshawar school roof collapse kills 35 students, 2 teachers

On Wednesday, the roof of a private school building in Peshawar's Dir Colony collapsed, killing at least 35 students and two teachers. The tragedy occurred around 8:45 when over 110 children were inside the school. Rescue 1122 teams quickly arrived at the scene and began the difficult task of pulling out the dead bodies and injured from the wreckage. The densely populated, narrow streets surrounding the school posed significant challenges for the rescue workers.

The school's owner was apprehended, and a police investigation was launched into the incident. The school's owner was arrested and a police investigation was launched into the incident. CCPO Peshawar Dr Mian Saeed confirmed the death of 20 school children, including a teacher, and the injury of 47 others. At Lady Reading Hospital, 17 children and a woman teacher were brought dead to the hospital, with more than 45 injured children and teachers also being treated there.

The injured children, all aged up to 13 years, were receiving immediate medical attention. Some were in critical condition, and an emergency had been declared at the hospital. Rescue personnel worked tirelessly to clear the rubble and search for any remaining trapped children. The Pakistan Army joined the rescue efforts, helping to clear the debris and reach those who may still be buried under the rubble.

The incident has prompted strong reactions from national and provincial leaders, as well as calls for a full investigation and improved safety measures in schools. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi requested a report on the incident, expressing sorrow and praying for the injured children's swift recovery. The province's Elementary and Secondary Education Secretary, Inayatullah Wasim, directed the Private Schools Regulatory Authority to submit a report by the next day and take action against schools with inadequate safety standards.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep shock and grief over the tragedy, calling for a comprehensive investigation and better medical care for the injured. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also voiced his sorrow and directed the administration to speed up rescue operations. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi offered condolences to the affected families and urged the nation to support them in their time of grief.