More than 10 people were injured after a large crane collapsed at a construction site in Kurla’s Qureshi Nagar during the early hours of Friday. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has pointed to soft and muddy ground at the site as a possible reason for the crane losing stability.
The incident occurred near a densely populated residential area, where the falling machinery damaged nearby structures and triggered a major emergency response.
MMRDA Points To Ground Conditions
According to the MMRDA’s preliminary assessment, the crane had been brought to Building No. 1 of Bhandari Metallurgy for demolition work.
The machine had not yet started demolition operations when the incident occurred. It was reportedly being positioned at the site when it tilted to one side and fell towards an adjoining construction area.
The authority said the ground was soft and muddy, which may have affected the crane’s balance and stability. However, this remains a preliminary assessment, and further investigation is expected to establish the exact cause of the collapse.
Crane Falls Towards Nearby Structures
The heavy machinery fell towards the surrounding area, causing panic among residents of Qureshi Nagar. Several nearby structures were affected, while part of the fallen crane also obstructed the road.
More than 10 people sustained injuries in the accident and were provided medical assistance. Emergency teams were quickly deployed to assess the situation and check whether anyone was trapped.
Rescue Teams Reach Kurla Site
Fire brigade personnel, police teams and other emergency workers reached the location after the crane collapsed.
The MMRDA arranged additional machinery and manpower to remove the crane and clear the affected area. Officials also secured the site and introduced safety measures to protect residents and workers.
Railway Infrastructure Hit
The crane also came into contact with overhead electrical equipment on the Kurla-Trombay railway section, which is mainly used for goods transportation.
Central Railway said passenger train services were not affected by the incident.
Authorities are continuing to assess the accident and the damage caused by the crane collapse. The preliminary finding regarding the soft ground is likely to form part of the investigation into how the machinery lost stability.
MMRDA Clarification
MMRDA said the crane had not started demolition work and was being positioned when it tilted and fell towards an adjoining structure. The authority said the soft ground may have affected its stability. MMRDA added that some people suffered minor injuries and that medical aid, machinery and manpower were immediately deployed, while the site was secured for crane removal.
