A tragic incident unfolded in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province when a classroom explosion left four students injured. The blast occurred after a fourth-grade pupil unknowingly brought an abandoned mortar shell into the school, mistaking it for a toy. The device detonated when it slipped from the child’s hands and hit the floor, causing panic among teachers and classmates.

Explosion Inside Classroom Causes Panic

According to reports, the explosion took place during regular school hours, catching both staff and students off guard. Witnesses described a loud bang followed by smoke and chaos as children rushed for safety. The injured students were quickly transported to a nearby hospital where they received medical treatment for their wounds. Hospital officials confirmed that all four victims were out of immediate danger but remained under observation.

Mortar Shell Mistaken for Toy

Investigations revealed that the explosive device was an old mortar shell, likely left behind from previous conflicts in the region. The young student who brought it to school had found it near his home and assumed it was a harmless object to play with. Authorities believe the shell detonated due to impact when it fell on the classroom floor, triggering the explosion that injured his classmates.

Authorities Launch Search for Unexploded Ordnance

Following the incident, local security forces and bomb disposal experts began combing surrounding areas to locate any additional unexploded ordnance that might pose further danger to residents. Officials urged parents and children to immediately report any suspicious metallic objects found near their homes or schools rather than handling them directly. Safety awareness campaigns are expected to be reinforced in communities close to former conflict zones.

Region’s History of Explosive Remnants

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which borders Afghanistan, has experienced numerous incidents involving leftover munitions from past military operations and cross-border conflicts. Many rural communities remain vulnerable due to unmarked areas containing unexploded shells or grenades. Despite ongoing clearance efforts by authorities, accidental explosions continue to occur periodically, often involving children who mistake dangerous items for toys or scrap metal.

Community Response and Safety Measures

Local leaders have called for increased awareness programs within schools to educate children about recognizing and avoiding explosive materials. Teachers have also been advised to incorporate safety instructions into daily lessons, emphasizing that unfamiliar objects should never be touched or moved without alerting adults or law enforcement officials. Emergency response teams have been placed on alert as precautionary measures continue across nearby districts.

The recent explosion serves as a stark reminder of the lingering dangers posed by remnants of conflict in border regions of Pakistan. While all injured students are recovering, authorities stress that vigilance and education remain crucial in preventing similar tragedies in the future. The investigation into how the mortar shell ended up near residential areas is ongoing as security agencies work to ensure community safety across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.