Eastern Railway (ER) is aiding the ongoing rescue operations at the site of a godown collapse in Kolkata, where 15 fatalities have been reported, with 18 individuals currently undergoing treatment at SSKM Hospital. Various agencies, including the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Kolkata Police, are actively participating in the rescue efforts.
ER has mobilized its personnel and equipment from Howrah and Sealdah Divisions and Liluah Workshop to assist in the operation. Utilizing cold cutters and specialized equipment, the railway team worked to clear the debris, aiming to locate any potential survivors trapped beneath tons of twisted steel and concrete pillars. These cold cutters are essential for such operations as they produce minimal heat, ensuring the safety of individuals trapped underneath.
The ER spokesperson highlighted the dedication of their 70-member team equipped with advanced technology, including oxy-cutter sets, abrasive cutters, and plasma cutting units. The railway personnel are tirelessly working to navigate through the wreckage, driven by a strong determination to rescue every individual trapped in the debris.
The rescue mission has become a priority for the railway staff, with a commitment to continue the operation until every person is safely rescued, regardless of their condition. The NDRF is employing dogs and infra-red equipment to detect signs of life beneath the rubble, while the Army is utilizing ground-penetrating radar technology.
The collapsed godown was under construction by a private company on land leased from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP) in Kolkata. Five individuals have been arrested on negligence charges, with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari attributing the incident to a flawed plan approved by the previous state government.
