PESHAWAR — Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has announced financial compensation for the families of children killed in the school tragedy in Peshawar’s Deir Colony area, pledging swift accountability for those responsible for the dilapidated building.
Compensation Announced for Victims’ Families
The governor confirmed that Rs1 million would be paid to each family that lost a child in the incident, while Rs200,000 would be provided to each injured person. The announcement came as authorities faced mounting pressure to explain how children were allowed to study in a structurally unsafe building.
Four-Day Investigation Ordered
Governor Kundi directed authorities to complete a comprehensive investigation within four days, saying the inquiry would not be limited to a preliminary review. He ordered investigators to determine who had issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the dilapidated school building during the previous government.
“Anyone found responsible will be brought to justice,” Kundi said, stressing that those guilty of negligence would face punishment regardless of their position.
Governor Visits Site, Criticises Past Practices
During a visit to the school, the governor said school buildings across the province had not been audited due to negligence by the previous government. He criticised past responses to similar incidents, noting that previous tragedies had often resulted only in photo opportunities and the formation of inquiry committees without meaningful follow-up.
Kundi said the investigation would examine the responsibilities of everyone involved, from the school owner to the relevant government departments.
Key Points of the Governor’s Announcement
- Rs1 million compensation for each family of a child killed in the tragedy
- Rs200,000 for each person injured in the incident
- A four-day deadline for a comprehensive investigation
- Scrutiny of the NOC issued for the school building under the previous government
- Accountability for negligence “regardless of position”
- Review of responsibilities from the school owner to government departments
The governor’s directives signal a renewed focus on building safety and administrative accountability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as families demand answers over a tragedy that has reignited concerns about oversight of school infrastructure.
