A tragic incident unfolded at a government primary school in Jhalawar district, Rajasthan, where the roof of a classroom collapsed, resulting in the deaths of seven children and injuries to at least 20 others. The collapse occurred on Friday morning at the Piplodi Govt Upper Primary School, shortly after students had gathered for their morning assembly.
Reports indicate that students had warned teachers about cracks in the roof and falling brick pieces minutes before the collapse. However, these warnings were allegedly ignored, and the children were told to remain quiet. This negligence is now under scrutiny as investigations into the incident commence.
The single-story building housed approximately 60 students and teachers at the time of the collapse. As the roof caved in, students were buried under debris, prompting a frantic rescue effort. Villagers, upon witnessing the dust clouds, rushed to the scene and were the first to initiate rescue operations. They were later joined by police and other government workers.
The injured, aged between 8 and 11 years, were promptly transported to a local hospital, with several reported to be in critical condition. The severity of the situation was evident in the visuals emerging from the site, with distraught family members searching for their children amidst the rubble.
Local authorities have suggested that the building's deteriorated condition, exacerbated by recent heavy monsoon rains, may have contributed to the collapse. Rajasthan, known for its extreme weather patterns, has experienced intense monsoon rains in recent weeks, raising concerns about the safety of aging infrastructure, particularly in rural schools. While a recent survey had not flagged the school building as unsafe, district official Ajay Singh affirmed that a detailed investigation would be conducted, and strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the principal and four teachers have been suspended for alleged negligence, pending a high-level probe. School Education Minister Madan Dilawar has taken moral responsibility for the incident. The minister has also directed authorities to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured children and provide necessary support to the affected families. Compensation for the victims' families has been announced. Experts are currently examining the structural stability of other buildings on the school campus.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing the incident as "tragic and deeply saddening". President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her grief and offered prayers for the bereaved families and the swift recovery of the injured.
This incident underscores the critical need for regular inspections and maintenance of school buildings, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather conditions. It also highlights the importance of heeding students' concerns regarding safety and addressing them promptly to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
