Rescue operations are intensifying in Sidoarjo, Indonesia, where a tragic incident unfolded at an Islamic boarding school, Al Khoziny, resulting in numerous students trapped beneath the rubble. The collapse occurred on 30 September 2024 while students were participating in afternoon prayers, raising urgent concerns over construction safety.
Trapped Students and Ongoing Operations
As of Thursday, 2 October 2024, officials confirmed that around 59 individuals were still trapped under the debris. Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster and Mitigation Agency, stated that the numbers were based on an attendance list from the school, indicating that some families were still reporting missing students.
Rescuers, clad in signature orange uniforms, have faced significant challenges as they navigate through narrow tunnels to reach trapped students. The search efforts have been complicated by a recent offshore earthquake, which temporarily halted rescue activities.
Concerns Over Building Standards
Initial investigations suggest that the collapse may have been due to substandard construction practices. Experts noted that the foundation might not have been able to support the additional weight from ongoing construction on upper floors. This incident has reignited discussions regarding building safety standards in Indonesia, where it is not uncommon for structures to be partially completed.
The Rescue Efforts
While hopes of finding survivors are dwindling, the rescue teams are utilising advanced technology, including thermal-sensing drones, to locate any signs of life. This is a race against time, as the critical 72-hour window for optimal survival chances is rapidly closing. Rescuers have detected signs of life in seven areas, however, efforts have so far yielded no new survivors since the discovery of five individuals earlier in the week.
The Human Factor
Harrowing scenes of anxious parents waiting for news continue at the site. Ahmad Ikhsan, father of a missing 14-year-old, expressed his anguish. “Until now, I haven’t heard about my son. I believe my son is still alive,” he said, encapsulating the hope and desperation felt by many.
This disaster not only raises urgent questions about safety standards but also highlights the collective grief and resilience of the affected families and the broader community.