Kolkata Warehouse Collapse Triggers Major Rescue Operation
Rescue Efforts Underway After Warehouse Collapse
A massive multi-agency rescue operation is underway at the site. (Photo:PTI)
Kolkata, Jun 24: A three-story warehouse under construction collapsed in the Taratala area of Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon, trapping multiple individuals under the rubble and prompting a large-scale rescue operation.
As reported by local authorities, at least ten individuals have been rescued and transported to a nearby medical facility.
"The roof of the warehouse, situated on Transport Depot Road near Brace Bridge in Taratala, collapsed around noon. Our officers are on-site. Some workers were present during the incident, and we are concerned that several may be trapped beneath the debris," stated a police official.
A representative from the fire department indicated that the collapse occurred while casting work was being conducted on the structure. Heavy iron beams and concrete slabs fell while numerous workers were engaged at the site.
Rescue operations underway at the site. (Photo:PTI)
Rescue teams from Kolkata Police, the Disaster Management Group, Civil Defence, and Fire and Emergency Services have initiated operations with urgency.
Additionally, army personnel have joined the rescue efforts, utilizing cranes and heavy machinery to remove the twisted steel and concrete debris.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing cries for help from beneath the rubble.
"Construction was ongoing on the ground floor, while the first and second floors had already been completed. Suddenly, the entire structure collapsed," recounted an eyewitness.
Rescue teams employed gas cutters to slice through the mangled iron beams and concrete, while vertical drilling was conducted to reach those trapped below.
"We are following the sounds of distress from under the debris. Simultaneously, we are reassuring those trapped that they will be rescued shortly," stated a member of the Kolkata Police Disaster Management Group.
Rescuers are using cranes, gas cutters and drilling equipment. (Photo:PTI)
In response to the incident, the state government activated the Disaster Management Group's control room at the state secretariat. Helpline numbers — 1070, 8697981070, 033-22143526, and 033-22535185 — have been made available for public assistance.
Local residents have raised concerns about ongoing illegal construction activities in the vicinity.
"We will investigate the causes of the collapse and any potential irregularities. However, our immediate focus is on rescuing as many victims as possible," stated Minister Indranil Khan.
Senior officials, including Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul and Kolkata Municipal Commissioner Smita Pandey, have also arrived at the scene. BJP leader Rakesh Singh was present earlier to evaluate the situation.
PTI