Lahore (Web Desk): At least 14 children died and several others sustained injuries after the roof of a private tuition centre collapsed in Lahore's Kahna area on Tuesday, the rescue sources said.
According to the minister, Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir said that 19 children were rushed to Kahna Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital following the accident. He confirmed that 14 children could not survive their injuries.
He said that two of the injured children were allowed to return home after receiving initial treatment, while four remain admitted for further medical care. Calling the incident deeply heartbreaking, he said the rescue operation had been completed successfully.
Rescue officials revealed that more than 30 children were inside the tuition centre when the roof caved in, trapping many beneath the debris.
Police said construction activity was underway on the building's upper floor, while classes were being conducted on the ground floor at the time of the collapse.
As investigations continue, authorities have taken five individuals into custody, including the owner of the building, to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal incident.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound sorrow over the loss of young lives and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families.
He also prayed for the departed children and instructed the relevant authorities to ensure that the injured receive the highest standard of medical care.
Taking immediate notice of the incident, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz sought a detailed report from the relevant autorities.
She expressed deep grief over the deaths of the 14 children and directed officials to provide the injured with the best possible treatment.
The CM directed the police and district administration to identify everyone whose negligence may have contributed to the tragedy and ensure criminal proceedings are initiated against those responsible.
Earlier, Lahore District Education Authority Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tariq Mahmood confirmed that the building was operating as a private tuition centre managed by a woman from the local community.
Meanwhile, health authorities declared an emergency at Lahore General Hospital, instructing senior administrators, doctors, nurses and paramedical staff to provide immediate medical treatment to the injured children arriving at the facility.
As per the initial reports, between 18 and 20 children were present inside the tuition centre when the roof collapsed.
Lahore Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran visited the scene and also confirmed reports of death toll quoting rescue sources.
As part of the initial investigation, police have detained five people, including the owner of the house where the incident occurred.
DIG Faisal Kamran said investigators were gathering evidence from the scene and assured that anyone found responsible for negligence would face strict legal action.
He revealed that the contractor who had recently carried out construction work on the building was also among those arrested.
The DIG added that a portion of the house was still under construction, with labourers present at the site when the roof suddenlycollapsed.