The death toll from a roof collapse at an under-construction warehouse in Kolkata’s Taratala has risen to nine, with 20 others receiving treatment at SSKM Hospital. Two of the injured are in critical condition. Rescue efforts are underway to free additional individuals still trapped under the debris.
Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, including a supervisor, iron structure manufacturer, land leaseholder, labour supplier, and intermediary for construction plan approval. Authorities are investigating further potential involvement and have not ruled out additional arrests if warranted.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the deputy commissioner of police has been formed to look into the matter. Allegations of construction irregularities, such as the use of tin sheets beneath the concrete roof, are being probed. Various agencies, including the Indian Army and NDRF, are coordinating rescue operations at the site where several workers remain trapped.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the scene, attributing the incident to a flawed building plan. He announced a suspension of work at all under-construction commercial properties in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation area until July 31, pending audits and inspections. Adhikari emphasized that only compliant properties would be allowed to resume operations from August 1.
