Indonesian rescue workers are racing against time to free dozens of students still trapped under the rubble of a collapsed Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo, East Java. The century-old Al Khoziny school caved in during afternoon prayers two days ago, leaving scores of children buried.
Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that at least 91 people remain missing, while three have died and more than 100 have been injured, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (BPBD).
In one section of the wreckage, rescuers located six students alive and are delivering food, water, and oxygen to them. “Once a specific location is identified, the chances of survival can be increased,” said Laksita Rini, head of Surabaya’s Fire and Rescue Department.
The children managed to communicate with rescuers on Wednesday, as crews carved tunnel-like passages through debris to reach them.
Rescue operations have been complicated by an earthquake in Sumenep, about 124 miles away, which may have compacted the rubble further, authorities warned.
With the operation now in its third day, officials caution that time is running out to find survivors.
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