Bhiwandi (Maharashtra): A late-night building collapse in Maharashtra’s Bhiwandi claimed the lives of at least seven people, while rescue teams continue to search through the debris amid fears that more occupants may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The incident occurred in the Balaji Nagar area when a section of the four-storey Kohinoor Building gave way around 11.30 pm on Thursday. The collapse happened while repair work was reportedly being carried out on the ageing structure.
According to municipal officials, the residential building housed 48 rooms, with 12 units on each floor. Authorities had earlier classified the property as structurally unsafe due to its deteriorating condition.
Residents recalled hearing alarming cracking noises from the building several hours before the collapse. Sensing imminent danger, local residents and neighbours rushed to alert occupants and helped many families evacuate the premises. However, before everyone could escape, one wing of the building suddenly collapsed, trapping several people inside.
Emergency response teams quickly launched an extensive rescue operation. Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Thane Disaster Response Force, local fire brigade and other emergency agencies are working together to locate survivors and recover those trapped under the debris.
Rescue teams have deployed sniffer dogs, fire engines, ambulances and heavy earth-moving equipment to speed up the operation. Officials said search and rescue efforts are continuing, with authorities closely monitoring the situation.
The exact cause of the collapse will be investigated once rescue operations are completed. Meanwhile, officials have urged residents living in other dilapidated buildings in the area to remain cautious and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.
As the rescue mission continues, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional casualties, with concerns remaining that more people could still be buried beneath the collapsed structure.
