Indonesian authorities have officially concluded rescue operations at the collapsed Al-Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, after confirming that no more victims are expected to be found.
The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) announced on Tuesday that after more than a week of intensive work, all debris has been cleared and search efforts have been formally ended. Officials confirmed that at least 61 people lost their lives, and seven body parts were also recovered from the wreckage. Some reports suggest the toll could rise slightly as identification continues.
So far, 17 bodies have been identified, while more than 100 people survived the disaster, according to the Disaster Victim Identification unit.
Rescue Efforts and Emotional Moments
Rescue teams worked tirelessly for days, digging through debris and calling out to trapped victims. One of the most emotional moments came when 13-year-old Selendra Haikal Rakaditya was pulled out alive after being buried for more than 72 hours — a rare miracle amid the tragedy.
A major decision in the operation came when families of the missing finally allowed the use of heavy machinery to clear the rubble. The shift came after the critical 72-hour “golden period” for rescue had passed.
Cause of Collapse Under Investigation
Authorities are now investigating what caused the school’s main building to collapse. Early evidence suggests poor construction practices and an unauthorized building extension added excessive weight to the structure. Reports indicate that additional concrete was being poured on the upper floors in the days leading up to the collapse.
The disaster has reignited public concern over Indonesia’s building safety standards, particularly at religious schools. The country has over 42,000 Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) — yet fewer than 50 reportedly possess valid building permits, raising questions about oversight and enforcement.
A Nation in Mourning
Communities across Indonesia are mourning the loss, as families continue to identify victims and rebuild their lives. The tragedy has sparked nationwide discussions about construction accountability and the urgent need for stronger safety regulations in educational institutions.
Source: Al Jazeera News – “Indonesia ends search for victims of school collapse with at least 61 dead”
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