PESHAWAR: At 27 children and a female teacher, were killed after the roof of a private school collapsed in Dir Colony, Peshawar, on Thursday, according to rescue and hospital officials.
Rescue 1122 launched an emergency operation at the school on College Road following the incident. Mohammad Asim, a spokesperson for Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), confirmed that 27 children and a female teacher were brought to the hospital in dead condition.
He said all the children were aged 13 or younger. Hospital authorities declared an emergency and arranged immediate treatment for the injured, some of whom were reported to be in critical condition.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives and directed authorities to provide the best possible medical assistance to the injured.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi also conveyed his condolences, sought a report on the incident and instructed officials to investigate the cause of the collapse.
Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed shock over the tragedy, while Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also extended condolences to the bereaved families.
KP Adviser for Information Samar Haroon Bilour expressed sorrow over the casualties and directed relevant authorities to ensure prompt and effective medical care for injured children.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
