National ( The cow news digital ) A devastating roof collapse at a private tuition centre in Lahore’s Kahna area has claimed the lives of at least 14 children, while several others were injured, prompting a large-scale rescue operation and an official investigation into the tragedy.
According to rescue officials, the incident occurred at approximately 4:45 p.m. when the roof of the building suddenly gave way during tuition hours. More than 20 children, along with a female teacher, were reportedly inside the centre at the time of the collapse. Emergency response teams rushed to the scene and launched rescue efforts to pull victims from beneath the debris.
Health authorities confirmed that 14 children lost their lives in the accident. Rescue workers managed to recover several survivors from the rubble, with six children receiving immediate medical attention. Two of the injured were discharged after first aid, while four remain under treatment in stable condition.
Local residents said the children had gathered at the academy for after-school tuition classes. Police officials stated that construction work was underway on the upper floor of the building while classes were being conducted on the ground floor. Authorities suspect that the ongoing construction may have contributed to the structural failure, though the exact cause will be determined after a detailed investigation.
Following the incident, police detained five individuals associated with the operation of the tuition centre for questioning. Investigators are examining whether building safety regulations were violated and if negligence played a role in the collapse.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured and called for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also took notice of the tragedy, ordering senior officials to submit a detailed report. She instructed health authorities to provide the highest standard of care to the injured children and emphasized that those responsible should be held accountable if negligence is established.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said the tuition centre was operating from a residential building that was reportedly in poor condition. She alleged that the structure had not been properly repaired despite being used to accommodate students, raising serious concerns about building safety standards.
Rescue operations continued into the evening as emergency teams searched the remaining debris to ensure no one was trapped beneath the collapsed structure. The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations at private educational facilities across the province.14 Children Killed as Lahore Tuition Centre Roof Collapses
