7 Dead, 26 Injured as Roof of Government School Collapses in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar
Four Children Among the Dead; High-Level Probe Ordered.
Jhalawar, Rajasthan:
A horrific tragedy unfolded in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district on Friday morning, as the roof of a government primary school collapsed, resulting in the deaths of seven people, including four children, and injuring at least 26 others.
The incident occurred around 7:45 a.m. at the Piplod Government School, located in the Manoharthana block, just as students had gathered for the morning prayer assembly. Eyewitnesses say the roof covering classes 6 and 7 suddenly gave way, trapping students and staff underneath.
“There were around 35 students inside the building at the time,” confirmed local officials. The collapse triggered chaos, with teachers and villagers rushing to the scene to help extricate the injured. Many children were buried under the debris and had to be rescued manually before emergency services arrived.
Victims Identified, Several Critical
According to Station House Officer Nand Kishore of the Manoharthana police station, five of the deceased have been identified as Kundar, Kanha, Raidas, Anuradha, and Badal Bhil.
Jhalawar Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar said, “Four children have died and 17 others are injured. Ten of the injured have been referred to Jhalawar Hospital, out of which three to four are in critical condition.”
Earlier, Vijendra Singh, SHO of Dangipura police station, said the portion of the building housing classes 6 and 7 had collapsed, suggesting possible structural weakness or neglect.
Official Reactions and Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“The mishap at a school in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the affected students and their families in this difficult hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected.”
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also extended condolences and assured support to the affected families.
“The concerned officials have been directed to ensure proper treatment of the injured children. May God grant peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families to bear this immense sorrow,” he said in a statement.
Government Promises Action
State Education Minister Madan Dilawar termed the incident as “very unfortunate” and ordered a high-level inquiry into the cause of the collapse.
“I have directed the district collector and education officers to immediately reach the site and ensure the best possible medical care for the injured. The administration is fully mobilized,” he said.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also reacted to the incident, praying for a minimal loss of life and swift recovery for the injured.
“There are reports of many children and teachers being injured due to the collapse. I pray for everyone’s safety and speedy recovery,” he posted on X.
Investigation Underway
Officials have begun preliminary investigations into the structural condition of the school building. The focus is now on whether poor construction quality, lack of maintenance, or recent rainfall played a role in the collapse. The Rajasthan government has promised strict action against anyone found negligent.
Widespread Shock and Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Rajasthan, with citizens and political leaders alike mourning the untimely deaths of young students. The school has been sealed for safety inspections, and grief-stricken families are being provided support by district authorities.
More updates are awaited as rescue and recovery efforts continue, and as the probe into the cause of the collapse progresses.
