Mumbai building collapse: Over 40 people in debris; CM Devendra Fadnavis says focus on rescuing trapped people
A four-storey Kesarbai building has collapsed in Dongri today, trapping at least 40-50 people in the debris, an IANS report said, citing officials, who added that a minor was rescued. The Kesarbai building in Dongri area collapsed at around 11.30 am, and local residents said at least 12-15 families buried under the rubble were awaiting help.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on building collapse told media, "As the initial information I have received, around 15 families are feared trapped in the collapse. The building is around 100 yrs old. The entire focus is on rescuing the people trapped. Investigation will be done." Image source: Reuters
The collapse of four-storey Kesarbai building is the second such collapse around Mumbai in less than ten days. Torrential rains that lash the city during the monsoon often destabilize older or badly constructed structures, leading to multiple building collapses over the years. Image source: IANS
"We don`t know exactly how many are trapped, but with the input provided by neighbours, we estimate more than 30 could be trapped," said the official, adding that rescue operations were hampered by narrow lanes in the area. Image source: IANS
The Kesarbai building, which belongs to the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, also housed a catering business on the ground floor, the officials reportedly said. The Fire Brigade, police and disaster management teams have rushed to the site and launched rescue operations, while the NDRF was expected to reach there shortly. Image source: Reuters
Narrow approach roads, huge crowds of onlookers and thickly populated areas hampered rescue operations. Image source: IANS