A tragic building collapse in Maharashtra’s Bhiwandi has claimed at least eight lives, while rescue teams continue searching for more people feared trapped beneath the debris. The heartbreaking incident took place late Thursday night when a portion of a four-storey residential building suddenly collapsed, sending panic through the neighbourhood.
The building, identified as Kohinoor Building in Balaji Nagar, Gangaram Wada, had already been declared dangerous by the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation (BNMC). Despite being marked as unsafe, repair work was reportedly underway when the structure gave way.
Residents heard warning signs before collapse
According to local residents, loud cracking noises were heard between 8 pm and 9 pm on Thursday. Alarmed by the sounds, several families rushed out of the building, while neighbours helped evacuate many occupants.
However, tragedy struck later in the night between 11 pm and 11:30 pm when a section of the building’s B Wing collapsed. At the time, some residents and workers involved in repair work were still inside, while others were trying to leave the building.
Eight bodies recovered
Officials confirmed that at least eight bodies have been recovered from the rubble so far. The deceased have been shifted to IGM Hospital for identification. Authorities believe that more people could still be trapped under the debris.
According to fire officials, six residents and five repair workers were initially reported missing after the collapse.
Massive rescue operation underway
A large-scale rescue operation is being carried out by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Bhiwandi Fire Brigade, local police, and district administration.
Rescue teams are using heavy machinery, sniffer dogs, ambulances, and excavators to remove debris carefully while searching for survivors. Officials say every effort is being made to save anyone who may still be trapped.
Building had 48 residential rooms
The four-storey structure consisted of 48 rooms, with 12 rooms on each floor. Authorities believe the age and condition of the building may have contributed to the collapse, though the exact cause will only be known after a detailed investigation.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over the safety of old and dilapidated buildings, especially during the monsoon season when weakened structures become even more vulnerable.
Investigation to follow
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact reason behind the collapse. Once rescue operations are completed, authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether negligence or safety violations played a role in the tragedy.
As rescue workers continue their efforts, anxious families remain at the site hoping for good news, while the state mourns yet another devastating building collapse.
