Workers present at the site of an under-construction warehouse collapse in Taratala, Kolkata, reported hearing trapped laborers screaming for help. Around 50 to 60 workers were feared trapped in the incident. Soni Devi, a worker at the warehouse, mentioned receiving a distress call alerting them of the collapse and the need for rescue.
One worker stated that 40 to 50 laborers were employed at the warehouse, with many still trapped under the debris, their cries audible. A swift rescue operation ensued, leading to the successful extraction of approximately 13 workers, who were then taken to SSKM Hospital for urgent medical attention. Among the rescued, five individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
Various agencies, including the Indian Army, NDRF, Fire Brigade, and Kolkata Police, mobilized for the rescue efforts, utilizing cranes and gas cutters to clear the collapsed structure. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and State Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul visited the site to oversee the operations. The collapse, believed to be triggered during welding work, occurred while 50 to 60 workers were on duty, possibly exacerbated by recent heavy rains weakening the construction materials.
