Pakistan roof collapse: Families blame poverty, not teacher, for children's deaths

In the Basti Eid Gah locality of Kahna, Pakistan, the devastating June 30 roof collapse that claimed the lives of 14 children has led grieving families to point fingers not at individuals, but at the pervasive poverty and unsafe housing that define their community. Hassan, a laborer who lost his five-year-old son Arkam, stated, "We have forgiven the teacher for the death of our son." Anila, the teacher who operated a tuition center for local children aged five to 14, was also injured in the collapse along with her daughter.

The neighborhood, known locally as Aluwali Gali, is characterized by half-built homes, a common sight in slums where residents construct dwellings incrementally as funds allow. The narrow streets and precarious structures, some built over sewage drains, underscore the dire living conditions. Locals shared that many homes have been built over the past two decades, often housing large families in cramped spaces, with extensions added as opportunities arise. The teacher's home, where the tragedy occurred, was reportedly no different.

Hassan recalled his son Arkam's aspirations to become a police officer, a dream cut short before he could even start school. He mentioned a prior incident where a child was injured by a falling tile, prompting requests for the tuition center to close, which were apparently ignored. The construction work at the teacher's home was being done by the family with only one laborer.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited the locality to offer condolences and met with bereaved parents, acknowledging their grief. The incident highlights the systemic issues of poverty and inadequate housing that contribute to such tragedies in the region.

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We have forgiven the teacher for the death of our son.