Sindh orders inspection of private school buildings after Peshawar tragedy

The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has ordered action against private schools operating in dangerous and dilapidated buildings in the province in the wake of the Peshawar school tragedy that claimed lives of 33 people.

Under the directives, a comprehensive inspection of buildings of private schools must be completed within 15 days. Educational activities in buildings declared unsafe must be suspended immediately, and students shifted to safe alternative premises.

The department has also ordered officials to identify unregistered private schools, review the registration of schools operating in dangerous buildings and ensure compliance with safety standards.

School owners and principals have been held responsible for students’ safety and directed to ensure immediate compliance with building safety regulations. Institutions found violating the directives will face legal action.

The department has sought a report within 15 days detailing unsafe schools, the students affected and arrangements made to relocate them.

The department's secretary said protecting children’s lives was the department’s top priority, adding that no compromise would be made on the safety of students, teachers and other staff.