14 Children Killed After Coaching Center Roof Collapses in Pakistan

At least 14 children were killed and several others injured after the roof of a coaching center collapsed in the Kahna area of Lahore, Pakistan, officials said.

Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir said 19 children were taken to Kahna Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital following the incident. Fourteen of them were pronounced dead, while two were discharged after receiving first aid. Four other children remain hospitalized for treatment.

Nazir described the tragedy as "deeply heartbreaking" and said rescue operations had been completed.

According to rescue officials, more than 30 children were inside the coaching center when the roof collapsed.

Police said construction work was underway on the upper floor of the building while classes were being held on the ground floor. The roof suddenly gave way, trapping students beneath the debris.

Authorities have detained five people, including the building owner, as investigators work to determine the cause of the collapse.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief over the incident, offering condolences to the families of the victims and directing officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also ordered an investigation into the collapse and sought a detailed report from the relevant authorities. She extended her sympathies to the bereaved families and instructed officials to provide comprehensive care to those injured.

Building collapses are a recurring problem in Pakistan due to poor construction standards, inadequate enforcement of building regulations and weak safety oversight. In July last year, a five-story residential building collapsed in Karachi's Lyari neighborhood, killing 27 people and injuring 10 others.