Ceiling Collapse in Russian School Triggers Safety Investigation Amid Growing Infrastructure Concerns

A classroom ceiling in a school located in Baley, a town in the Zabaikalsky region of Russia’s Far East, caved in during a lesson, prompting a safety standards investigation.

At the time of the incident on Thursday, there were eight students in the classroom. Their teacher heard ominous sounds from above and successfully evacuated the students just before plaster and ceiling components fell, as reported by Zabaikalsky region Governor Alexander Osipov on Telegram.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The independent media outlet Lyudi Baikal shared footage depicting shattered ceiling tiles and debris scattered across a dust-laden classroom, with frightened children peeking in.

Osipov noted that the ceiling collapse occurred two years post-renovation of the building. He mentioned that the contractor’s warranty is effective until 2026 and that repair work has already commenced.

The regional prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation to ascertain whether safety and maintenance protocols were followed during and after the renovations. Prosecutors plan to review adherence to construction regulations and hold those accountable who may be responsible.

The acting district prosecutor, along with local officials, visited the school to assess the damage and directed them to address any maintenance shortcomings, oversight issues, and safety concerns regarding the educational environment.

Regional investigators have also opened a criminal case related to safety violations.

This incident is part of a troubling trend in Russia, where issues with deteriorating public infrastructure have been observed.

According to the independent outlet 7×7, at least 31 Russian schools have experienced partial roof or ceiling collapses since 2023, and there are 510 schools across the country categorized as unsafe or in dire need of significant repairs.