The roof of a school in northwest Pakistan has collapsed, killing at least 28 students and one teacher and injuring more than 20 others, according to a hospital spokesperson.
The incident happened on Thursday at Al-Khair Education Centre, a private school in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Rescue teams are searching the rubble for survivors.
Hospital spokesperson Mohammad Asim confirmed the casualty toll, saying some of the injured were in critical condition. According to him, all the children killed or injured were 13 years old or younger.
Lady Reading Hospital declared an emergency as medical teams treated the victims.
Rescue efforts hampered
Reporting from Islamabad, Al Jazeera correspondent Kamal Hyder said rescue efforts were facing serious difficulties because the school is located in a crowded, cramped area.
"Some of the heavy machinery that is very much needed could not reach the site. Local people along with the rescue teams are using buckets and pans to clear the debris and try to pull out those who are buried. The school had around 350 students enrolled," Hyder said.
"The casualty toll could rise further. In addition, dozens of injured students are being treated at the hospital, some of them in serious condition."
Investigation ordered and official reaction
Authorities said they have ordered an investigation to determine the cause of the roof collapse.
Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar wrote on X: "Children are our most precious asset, and every such loss is a tragedy for the whole country. My respects and prayers go to the bereaved families."
"The prime minister and the government have taken a special interest in the situation. Ensuring the safety and protection of children must always be the top priority," he added.
