Jhalawar: A devastating incident unfolded at a government-run primary school in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district on Friday morning, as a classroom roof caved in during school hours, leaving four students dead and at least 17 others injured. The tragedy occurred at Piplodi Primary School in Manoharthana tehsil, where more than two dozen children were attending morning lessons.
Initial reports suggest the roof collapse happened around 9:15 AM, catching the students and staff completely off guard. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as local residents, teachers, and emergency teams scrambled to rescue the trapped children from beneath the rubble.
Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar confirmed, “Four children have unfortunately lost their lives, and 17 others have been injured. Ten of them have been referred to Jhalawar district hospital, and three to four are in critical condition.” He added that swift response from the police and district administration helped limit the extent of casualties.
A major rescue operation was immediately launched, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and fire services working in tandem to clear the debris. The injured students were transported to nearby hospitals by ambulances stationed at the site.
Rajasthan’s Education Minister Madan Dilawar, who expressed grief over the incident, assured the public that the state would bear all medical expenses. “This is a deeply saddening tragedy. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the collapse. We have instructed local officials to fast-track rescue and relief measures,” he said after a briefing from the District Collector.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also expressed concern and offered condolences. “The reports from Manoharthana are heartbreaking. I hope for a speedy recovery for the injured and urge the government to provide full support to the affected families,” he said in a statement.
