Indonesia School Collapse: Rescue Efforts Continue as Hope Diminishes
Rescue efforts are underway at the Al Khoziny Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia, following a devastating collapse on Monday, October 2, 2025. With no signs of life detected beneath the rubble, authorities have made the difficult decision to deploy heavy machinery, while distraught families await news of their loved ones.
Grim Search Update
Despite initial hopes of finding survivors, Indonesian rescue authorities have acknowledged the dwindling chances of survival. Lt Gen Suharyanto, head of the BNBP (Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency), stated that thermal drones and silence sweeps yielded no signs of life. The focus has shifted to carefully removing large sections of the collapsed structure using cranes and other heavy equipment.
The Collapse and Its Aftermath
The multi-story building, part of the century-old Al Khoziny Islamic boarding school, collapsed while students were gathered for afternoon prayers. The collapse is attributed to the failure of the building's foundation to support the weight of ongoing construction of additional floors. Authorities indicate that the new construction lacked the necessary permits. The incident has resulted in at least five confirmed deaths and numerous injuries, with many students still unaccounted for. Approximately 59 people are estimated to be trapped under the debris.
Families in Agony
Tearful and anxious families have gathered at the scene, desperately seeking news of their children. Many have camped out near the school, anxiously awaiting updates. Some residents have opened their homes, offering families a place to stay while waiting for news of their loved ones. Jayanti Mandasari, mother of Muhammad Mufi Alfian, expressed frustration over the school's management lack of apology and lack of response to concerns over the quality of construction. Mohammad Solehoddin, father of Ahmad Suafi, remains hopeful of finding his son.
Challenges and Investigations
The rescue operation faces numerous challenges, including the unstable structure of the rubble, the risk of further collapse, and potential landslides. Mohammad Syafi’i, head of Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency, detailed the complex nature of the operation, including digging an underground tunnel to reach victims. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway, with initial findings suggesting substandard construction practices. Emi Frizer, search and rescue official stated that the building shows all signs of "foundational failure". Stricter building standards are being called for to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Outlook
Nearly 220 workers are involved in the rescue operation, with ambulances standing by. Thermal-sensing drones and other technology are being utilized to locate survivors. Despite the grim outlook, rescuers are proceeding with caution, aiming to recover all those trapped beneath the rubble. Authorities are also working to accurately determine the number of missing, as initial figures have fluctuated due to conflicting data. The incident has underscored the importance of enforcing building codes and prioritizing safety in construction projects throughout Indonesia.
