Balasore: A Class V student tragically lost his life at a government-run upper primary school in Odisha’s Balasore district when a concrete slab unexpectedly collapsed, crushing the boy on the school premises.
According to sources, the incident took place at Badas Upper Primary School in Baliapal block on Thursday amid ongoing construction work for a new building. The victim, identified as Prahlad Dhala, was playing on the school premises during the midday meal break when the slab, part of the unfinished structure, suddenly gave way and fell, causing severe injuries.
He was immediately rushed to the Baliapal IDCO Community Health Centre in a critical condition from where he was referred to AIIMS in Remuna, for for advanced medical care. However, Prahlad succumbed to his injuries en route with doctors declaring him brought dead.
The incident sparked outrage among parents and locals, who accused the school authorities of gross negligence for allowing construction activities to continue while classes were in session. They have demanded a thorough investigation, holding those responsible accountable, and the implementation of stringent safety protocols to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
