Daijiworld Media Network - Sambhal

Sambhal, Aug 16: An Independence Day celebration at a private school in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district turned tragic on Saturday after the canopy at the school's main entrance collapsed, killing an eight-year-old boy and seriously injuring two students.

The incident occurred during an Independence Day programme at Al Hasnain Public School in Madala village under the Asmoli police station area. CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced, showing the moment the structure collapsed as children gathered around to watch the celebrations.

According to officials, several local children had come to the school to watch the Independence Day programme. Some children climbed onto the entrance canopy while others stood beneath it. The structure reportedly gave way under the additional weight, trapping children beneath the debris.

Local residents rushed to the spot after hearing screams and began rescue efforts. The trapped children were pulled out from the rubble and taken to a nearby hospital.

The deceased was identified as eight-year-old Nizamuddin, who had come to watch the programme. Doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Two school students, Saif Ali and Shaidana, sustained serious injuries and were referred to a higher medical centre for further treatment.

The incident prompted an immediate response from the district administration. District Magistrate Ankit Khandelwal and Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Bishnoi, along with other senior officials and members of the education department, reached the school and inspected the site.

Officials also met the school management and gathered details about the circumstances that led to the collapse. They later visited the family of the deceased and assured them of all possible assistance.

Speaking to reporters, SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi said the Independence Day programme was underway when a group of children climbed onto the canopy.

“One child who was not a student of the school was standing below the structure. The canopy collapsed after several children climbed on it, trapping three children under the debris. One child died while two others were injured,” he said.

District Magistrate Ankit Khandelwal said preliminary findings indicated that the structure collapsed due to the additional load of children standing on it. He confirmed that the injured children were receiving treatment and that an inquiry into the incident had been initiated.

Family members said Nizamuddin had gone to the school carrying a flag to watch the Independence Day celebrations. They said the wall-like structure suddenly collapsed, trapping him beneath the rubble.

Police said the victim's family had, for the time being, declined to pursue legal action. Authorities, however, are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse and are also assessing the safety of the school premises.