DERA GHAZI KHAN: Four students were killed and 14 others injured when the roof of a private school collapsed here.
According to Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Usman Khalid, the roof of Class 1 classroom suddenly caved in, trapping 24 children under the debris. Rescue 1122 teams managed to pull out eight children alive, while four bodies were recovered from the rubble. The injured students were shifted to Allama Iqbal Teaching Hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. Two labourers and a schoolteacher were also among the injured.
Officials said the tragic incident occurred after construction material from an under-construction building adjacent to the school was allegedly placed on the roof, leading to overloading and collapse. The deceased students were identified as Masooma, Afia, Dua Fatima and Muhammad Abdullah — all Class 1 students.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif took notice of the incident and directed the authorities to reach the site immediately and ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured. Emergency measures were also imposed at the government hospital. Deputy Commissioner Usman Khalid said initial findings suggest negligence, adding that a detailed investigation is under way.
