A major tragedy occurred in the Afridi Abad area of Peshawar, Pakistan, when the roof of a private school collapsed. At least 28 people, including 27 children and a female teacher, lost their lives in the incident. The children who died were reportedly between 7 and 13 years old. More than 30 people have been injured, six of whom are in critical condition.
Search for those trapped in the debris continues
The incident took place in Peshawar on Thursday. Asim Khan, an official at Lady Reading Hospital, confirmed the death toll. According to the hospital administration, the injured have been admitted for treatment, and an emergency has been declared.
Upon receiving news of the incident, ‘Rescue 1122’ ambulances and disaster relief teams arrived at the scene. Rescuers are searching for individuals trapped in the debris. It is feared that more people may still be buried, which could lead to an increase in the death toll.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expresses grief
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his sorrow over the incident. Offering his condolences to the families of the deceased, he prayed that they be granted the strength and patience to endure this tragic loss.
Similar incidents have occurred in Pakistan before
Incidents involving the collapse of buildings and roofs have occurred in Pakistan in the past. A lack of adherence to safety standards and the use of substandard construction materials are considered potential causes for such occurrences.
In June of this year, more than a dozen children died when the roof of a tuition center collapsed in Lahore. Separately, in the Lyari area of Karachi, a five-story building collapsed, resulting in 27 deaths and 10 injuries.
Relief and rescue operations are currently underway following the recent school collapse in Peshawar. The full extent of the damage will only become clear once the search for people trapped in the debris is complete.
