School roof collapses in northwestern Pakistan, killing at least 29 people

The roof of a school in northwestern Pakistan has collapsed, killing at least 28 students and a teacher and injuring more than 50 others, authorities said.

The incident happened on Thursday at Al-Khair Education Centre, a private school in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province .

Lady Reading Hospital spokesman Mohammad Asim confirmed the casualties, saying some of the injured were in critical condition. All the children killed or injured were age 13 or younger, he said. The hospital has declared an emergency as medical staff treat the wounded.

Hours after the collapse, rescue officials said everyone trapped under the rubble had been recovered.

Reporting from Islamabad, Al Jazeera’s Kamal Hyder said the school had about 350 registered students.

“The casualties are likely to rise. Dozens of wounded students are in hospital. Some of them are in a serious condition,” he added.

Authorities said an investigation has been ordered to determine the ⁠cause of the collapse.

“Our children are our most precious asset, and every such loss is a tragedy for the entire country. My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with the bereaved families,” Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said in a post on X.

“The prime minister and the government have taken serious note of the situation. Ensuring the safety and protection of our children must remain paramount,” he added.