A tragic incident unfolded on Friday morning in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district when a portion of a government school building collapsed, claiming the lives of four children and leaving 17 others injured, some critically. The collapse occurred at the Peeplodi Government School in Manoharthana block just as students were assembling for morning prayers.
Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar confirmed the casualty figures, stating, “Four children have died, and 17 others are injured. Ten children have been referred to Jhalawar hospital, out of which three to four are in critical condition.”
According to police sources, teachers and local villagers rushed to rescue the children trapped under the debris. Their quick response helped minimize further casualties.
Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured a high-level inquiry into the structural failure. “I have instructed the district collector and education officer to ensure all arrangements for treatment are made,” he said, adding that officials have already reached the site.
Circle Inspector Nandkishore from Manoharthana police station reported that two of the critically injured children have been referred to a specialized health facility, while six others are undergoing treatment at SRG Hospital.
Station House Officer Vijendra Singh from Dangipura police station said that the affected school was an upper primary institution with at least 27 students present at the time of the collapse.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took to social media to express his concern: “There are reports of many children and teachers getting injured due to the collapse of a government school building in Jhalawar’s Manoharthana. I pray to God for minimum loss of life and speedy recovery of the injured.”
Authorities are investigating the cause of the building collapse, and the state government has pledged all possible support to the victims and their families.
