A major tragedy struck northwestern Pakistan on Thursday when the roof of a private educational facility collapsed in Peshawar, claiming the lives of at least 28 students and a teacher. According to hospital spokespersons, more than 20 others sustained injuries, many of whom are currently in critical condition.

The incident occurred at the Al-Khair Education Centre located in the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Emergency services and local residents immediately mobilized to search for survivors beneath the heavy rubble. Hospital representative Mohammad Asim confirmed the grim casualty toll, noting that all the children killed or injured were 13 years of age or younger.

Rescue operations faced severe logistical challenges due to the congested urban layout surrounding the school. Reporters on the ground indicated that heavy machinery was unable to reach the disaster zone, forcing local volunteers and rescue teams to clear debris using buckets and basic utensils. The affected institution reportedly registered approximately 350 students, raising serious concerns that the final death toll could increase further.

Local authorities have allegedly ordered a formal investigation to determine the underlying causes of the structural failure. Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar offered routine condolences via social media, asserting that child safety remains paramount. Critics, however, point to systemic failures in infrastructure maintenance and regulatory oversight that routinely endanger civilian lives across the region.

Source: www.aljazeera.com