The death toll from a school collapse in Java, Indonesia, rose to 37, officials reported. The multi-storey building crumbled on Monday during afternoon prayers, trapping students. Rescuers recovered 141 victims by Sunday morning, with 104 safe and 26 still missing, according to Yudhi Bramantyo, operations director for the National Search and Rescue Agency.
Local agency head Nanang Sigit confirmed the toll, noting a body part found Saturday added to the count. The tragedy has gripped the nation, raising concerns about the safety of construction.
The rescue operation faces challenges. Vibrations in the rubble risk further collapses, complicating efforts. Initially, teams avoided heavy equipment to protect survivors. However, families of the missing approved its use on Thursday after the critical 72-hour survival window closed. Consequently, rescuers intensified efforts to locate those still trapped.
1 student killed, 80+ injured as a school collapses in Sidoarjo, Indonesia
65 still trapped under the rubble as rescuers fight to save lives
Families wait in anguish amid reports of unauthorized construction pic.twitter.com/VOuSaJzQgz
— RT (@RT_com) September 30, 2025Investigation Points to Construction Issues
Experts suspect substandard construction caused the collapse. Investigators are examining the building’s integrity, with a focus on its materials and design. Early findings suggest structural flaws, though a final report is pending. This tragedy underscores the need for stricter building regulations in Indonesia.
The disaster highlights vulnerabilities in public infrastructure. With 26 people unaccounted for, families and communities await answers. The government faces pressure to improve safety standards and prevent future tragedies. For now, rescue teams remain focused on the recovery effort.
