Three Killed as Under-Construction Structure Crashes Down
A major construction accident in Kolkata’s Taratala locality turned into a tragedy on Wednesday after a three-storey warehouse under construction collapsed, killing at least three people and leaving several workers trapped beneath piles of concrete and steel.
Emergency teams rushed to the site soon after the collapse, rescuing more than 20 workers while search operations continued for others believed to be buried under the debris.
Rescue Mission Intensifies
Rescue personnel from multiple agencies, including disaster response teams, police, fire services and the Army, launched a large-scale operation using cranes, gas cutters and heavy machinery to reach those trapped inside.
Officials said rescue workers were relying on sounds from beneath the rubble while using specialised equipment, drones and sniffer dogs to locate survivors.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari reviewed the operation and said 21 people had been rescued while around 12 to 18 individuals were still feared trapped.
Several Injured Shifted to Hospital
Multiple injured workers were taken to SSKM Hospital and other medical facilities for treatment. Hospital authorities said several victims suffered fractures, head injuries and internal trauma, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Medical teams remain on standby as rescuers continue bringing survivors out of the collapsed structure.
Eyewitnesses Describe Moments of Panic
Workers present at the site said construction activity was underway when the structure suddenly gave way without warning. Heavy iron beams and concrete slabs crashed onto labourers working below, triggering chaos.
Local residents reported hearing cries for help from underneath the debris moments after the collapse, prompting nearby workers and emergency responders to begin rescue efforts.
Preliminary Findings Point to Possible Construction Flaws
Officials inspecting the site said initial observations indicate possible structural and design deficiencies, though the exact cause of the collapse will be determined after a detailed technical investigation.
The warehouse was reportedly being constructed on a leasehold property linked to the city’s port area.
Investigation Underway
Senior government officials, municipal authorities and police officers reached the accident site to supervise rescue operations and assess the situation.
A disaster control room has also been activated to assist families and coordinate emergency response as authorities continue efforts to locate those still missing beneath the rubble.
