Rescue teams are actively searching for numerous students who are believed to be trapped under the wreckage of a collapsed school in East Java, Indonesia. The death toll has climbed to six following the incident, with five survivors already rescued after being located beneath the building.
The Islamic boarding school, which was undergoing unauthorized construction to add two additional floors, collapsed during prayers, leading to a tragic situation where concrete slabs and debris fell on the students. Over 300 workers are tirelessly working at the site to reach any remaining survivors who are still alive and trapped beneath the rubble.
Efforts are underway to complete the rescue operation as quickly as possible, with hopes of saving more lives within the critical initial period after the collapse. Despite the unstable conditions of the collapsed structure, rescuers are employing various methods, including providing essential supplies like oxygen, water, and food to the trapped individuals.
Rescue teams are using detectors and thermal drones to locate anyone who might still be alive under the debris. The tragic incident has resulted in numerous injuries, with around 26 individuals currently hospitalized, many of whom have sustained severe injuries such as head trauma and fractures.
The school collapse occurred during the afternoon prayers, affecting mostly male students aged between 12 and 18. Female students who were in a different area of the building were able to escape the collapse. Authorities have indicated that the building’s foundation could not support the additional floors being constructed, leading to the catastrophic collapse.
While there was initial confusion regarding the number of missing individuals, authorities have now revised the count to 91 after reviewing attendance records and speaking with families. The search and rescue operation continues with utmost urgency to locate and save any remaining survivors trapped in the debris.