Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has ordered an immediate safety audit of school buildings across the province, particularly those located in densely populated areas, following a fatal building collapse at a private school in Lahore.
The chief minister directed authorities to inspect school structures for potential safety hazards and ensure compliance with approved construction standards.
Province-Wide Inspection Ordered
Under the directive, relevant departments have been instructed to:
- Conduct comprehensive safety inspections of school buildings.
- Identify structural weaknesses and potential hazards.
- Verify compliance with building and construction regulations.
- Submit a detailed report on the condition of educational institutions.
The chief minister also ordered strict legal action against anyone found responsible for negligence or substandard construction.
Action Follows Fatal School Roof Collapse
The directive comes after a tragic incident in Baghbanpura, Lahore, where an eight-year-old student lost his life and several others were injured when part of an under-construction school building collapsed.
According to Rescue 1122, construction work was underway on the top floor of the three-story building when a section of the structure gave way.
The private school was reportedly conducting a summer camp at the time of the incident.
Rescue Operation
Emergency teams from Rescue 1122 responded promptly to the scene.
Officials said rescue workers successfully pulled more than 10 children from the debris and shifted the injured to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
Chief Minister Seeks Report
Maryam Nawaz expressed grief over the death of the young student and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
She also directed:
- The Lahore Commissioner to submit a detailed report.
- The Director General of Rescue 1122 to provide a comprehensive account of the incident.
- Health authorities to ensure the injured children receive the best possible medical care.
Focus on School Safety
The latest directive reflects the Punjab government’s renewed focus on improving the safety of educational institutions, particularly schools operating in older or densely populated urban areas.
Authorities are expected to identify unsafe structures and recommend corrective measures to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
