Tragic School Collapse in Indonesia: Deaths and Missing Persons Reported

A devastating incident occurred in Indonesia as an Islamic boarding school on Java island collapsed unexpectedly during construction work. The tragedy struck while students were engaged in afternoon prayers, leading to multiple casualties and numerous individuals reported missing.

Rescue teams are currently working tirelessly to locate survivors buried under the rubble of the multi-story building in Sidoarjo, East Java. According to local disaster management officials, at least 38 individuals remain unaccounted for, including both students and construction workers. Initial reports indicate that three students have lost their lives in the disaster.

Approximately 80 injured individuals have been transported to hospitals, with many suffering from serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and lacerations. One victim reportedly required an arm amputation due to the severity of their injuries.

Efforts to reach those trapped beneath the debris have faced significant challenges. Search teams have managed to identify seven individuals alive within the wreckage, but access has proven difficult due to the presence of large concrete blocks obstructing rescue operations. Teams have established a small passage to provide trapped persons with essential supplies like oxygen, food, and water.

The Al Khoziny Islamic boarding school was undergoing construction work at the time of the collapse, particularly during the pouring of a concrete slab. Witnesses have suggested that a supporting column may have failed under the weight of the wet concrete, leading to the building's sudden collapse. Reports suggest that the structure had only recently been completed and was already in use for classes.

Eyewitness accounts describe the moments leading up to the collapse, noting that the building exhibited vibrations and emitted creaking noises before it fell within seconds. Around 100 students were reportedly present in the second floor at the time of the incident.

In response to the tragedy, hundreds of rescue workers, including personnel from disaster response agencies, firefighters, and volunteers, have mobilized to assist in the search for survivors. The national search and rescue agency (Basarnas) has deployed specialized units, coordinating efforts with over 56 organizations and a total of 332 personnel to ensure a comprehensive rescue operation.

As the rescue mission continues, authorities are exercising caution, as the unstable condition of the building's remains poses risks for further collapses. Rescue leaders have indicated that heavy machinery is on standby but has not yet been deployed to avoid exacerbating the situation, which could endanger both survivors and rescue teams.

The search will persist until all missing individuals have been accounted for, with officials emphasizing the need for specialized teams equipped with the necessary tools and training to navigate this precarious situation effectively.