Swat — At least seven students fainted during school hours on Thursday at Eagle Model School in Bara Durushkhela, Matta Tehsil, due to a combination of soaring temperatures and prolonged power outages, highlighting urgent concerns about inadequate infrastructure and emergency preparedness in the region.
The extreme heat, coupled with the lack of electricity and ventilation, created unbearable classroom conditions that led to the collapse of the students. Rescue 1122 teams promptly responded, providing first aid and transferring the affected children to Matta’s Tehsil Headquarters Hospital. All students are reported to be out of danger.
The affected children, aged between 11 and 15, were identified as Abdullah, Elyas, Hakeemullah, Mohammad Saad, Saad, Tayyab, and Zeeshan Ali.
Swat, known for its generally cool climate, is currently facing an unusual heatwave. Parents expressed shock at the incident, emphasizing the vulnerability of students in a region not accustomed to such extreme temperatures.
Experts linked the fainting episodes to heat exhaustion, worsened by the absence of cooling systems and backup power in most rural schools. Power outages in Matta and surrounding areas frequently last several hours, exacerbating the problem.
Medical professionals advised parents and school officials to ensure children stay hydrated and avoid excessive sun exposure. Parents have called for immediate safety measures, including better ventilation, adequate water supply, and limited outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
They also urged authorities to improve the reliability of electricity supply to schools, warning that failure to act could lead to more health emergencies among students.