Tragic Warehouse Collapse in Kolkata Claims Lives and Traps Workers

A devastating warehouse collapse in Kolkata has led to the loss of at least three lives, with fears that many more workers are trapped under the debris. Rescue teams, including the army and disaster response forces, are working tirelessly to locate and save those still buried. As the situation unfolds, authorities are investigating the number of workers present during the incident. The community watches closely as hopes remain for the safe recovery of those trapped.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2026, 18:35 IST

Devastating Incident in Kolkata

On Wednesday, a three-story warehouse under construction collapsed in the Taratala area of Kolkata, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals. There are fears that around 15 workers may still be trapped under the rubble. In response, a large-scale rescue operation was launched involving the army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and fire services. Rescue teams worked diligently, responding to cries for help that emerged from beneath twisted steel and concrete, raising hopes that more workers might still be alive. So far, 21 workers have been rescued and transported to hospitals, with several reported in critical condition. The rescue teams are actively searching for those believed to be trapped in the debris.

Government Response and Rescue Efforts

Shubhendu Adhikari, a leader from West Bengal, visited the site and confirmed that all agencies are collaborating to rescue those trapped. He noted that the NDRF, army, SDRF, police, and fire department are all working together. To date, 21 individuals have been rescued, while three fatalities have been confirmed. The SSKM hospital is currently treating the injured, and approximately 12 to 15 individuals are still believed to be trapped inside. Authorities are trying to ascertain how many workers were present at the time of the collapse, with initial reports suggesting that between 40 to 50 workers were on-site. The collapse was caused by large iron beams and concrete slabs falling during construction, burying many workers beneath the debris.

Emergency Response and Ongoing Rescue Operations

Emergency teams arrived promptly after the building's collapse and initiated a comprehensive rescue operation. Four units of the Indian Army were deployed at the request of the state government and disaster management officials. Personnel from the NDRF, SDRF, police, and fire department are tirelessly working to reach the workers trapped under the rubble. Gas cutters are being utilized to slice through twisted steel and concrete, while vertical drilling is being conducted to create access points to reach potential survivors. The NDRF has also deployed sniffer dogs and drones to detect signs of life beneath the fallen structure. Rescue workers are operating under extremely challenging conditions, carefully removing debris to prevent further collapses.