A devastating incident struck East Java, Indonesia, as a multi-storey Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo collapsed during afternoon prayers, claiming the lives of more than 50 students and staff. The disaster unfolded last week, shocking the nation as rescue teams rushed to save those trapped under the ruins. Most of the victims were teenage boys, aged between 12 and 18, who were taking part in religious activities when the structure suddenly gave way.
The cause of the collapse has been traced to ongoing construction on the school’s upper floors. According to investigators and civil engineering experts, the building’s foundation was too weak to support the extra weight added by new levels. This reckless expansion led to the rapid “pancake” collapse of the structure, trapping dozens beneath the debris.
As news of the tragedy spread, families gathered outside the site, anxiously waiting for updates from rescue teams. Survivors recalled the terrifying moments as ceilings caved in and concrete rained down. Rescuers have now shifted their focus from finding survivors to recovering bodies, with hopes for additional rescues fading after days of searching.
The incident has brought attention to widespread concerns over substandard building practices in Indonesia. The majority of Islamic schools in the country reportedly operate without official construction permits or safety checks. Authorities have pledged a full investigation and called for stricter enforcement of building regulations, especially for educational institutions.
The tragedy has left families grieving and the community demanding answers—underscoring the urgent need for improved building oversight to prevent similar disasters in the future.
