Investigation launched into Peshawar school roof collapse in Dir Colony

What happened

On the morning of October 15, 2026, the roofs of two floors collapsed at a private school in Dir Colony, Peshawar [1, 2]. Rescue 1122 received the first emergency call at 8:48 am and initially dispatched two ambulances, later expanding the response to 20 ambulances and 100 personnel [2]. Rescue teams recovered 56 individuals from the scene [2].

An FIR registered at Agha Mir Jani Police Station alleges that builders used substandard materials during construction [1]. The report also states that school owners had previously received complaints regarding deteriorating walls and roofs but did not respond [1]. The school was built on 16 marlas of land owned by Waheed and Javed, which was leased in 2024 [1]. While the school was registered in 2026, the Peshawar Commissioner reported that the administration failed to follow prescribed standard operating procedures (SOPs) [5].

Following the incident, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi ordered an investigation into the negligence of school management and government departments [1]. He directed authorities to prepare new legislation to regulate private schools and submit a report within 15 days [5]. The Governor also stated that the investigation into the collapse should be completed within four days [1].

Who is affected

• Casualties: 35 people lost their lives, including 33 children and two female teachers [1]. One source reported 32 students and one teacher died [3].
• Injured: 20 people were treated at Lady Reading Hospital [1]. Other reports indicated 52 people were injured [2]. All injured victims have since been discharged from Lady Reading Hospital [1].
• Families: Families in Dir Colony are mourning the victims, including the relatives of 11-year-old Hammad [1, 3]. One parent, Asadullah, reported losing a son, a nephew, and three other close relatives [3].
• Legal Action: Police have named the school owners, shareholders, and a contractor in a case [1]. A senior official stated that a school owner has been detained [3].
• Financial Assistance: Governor Kundi announced Rs1 million in financial assistance for each deceased child’s family and Rs200,000 for every injured child [1].