5 Killed, Many Feared Trapped As Warehouse Roof Collapses In Kolkata

Five people were killed after the roof of an under-construction warehouse in Kolkata's Taratala area collapsed on Wednesday, trapping at least many people under the debris.

Several workers were engaged in construction work at the warehouse when the roof of the three-floor building collapsed. Locals began the rescue operations immediately, while the police, fire services, and rescue teams arrived at the spot soon after being informed.

21 people have been rescued so far as the operation continues. The rescued victims could be seen being brought out in stretchers covered in mud. The three victims were declared dead at the hospital. Two of the victims have been identified as 40-year-old Rohit Chowdhari and 30-year-old Krishna Chowdhury. 

In the wake of the tragic warehouse roof collapse in Taratala, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a total suspension of all under-construction work across Kolkata until July 31.   

Additionally, the Chief Minister has ordered a comprehensive audit of all under-construction buildings in the city to ensure structural safety and compliance with building codes.

The fire department confirmed that they received the first call regarding the incident at 12.20 pm. 

"We are following the cries for help coming from under the debris. At the same time, we are assuring the trapped people that they will be rescued soon," a member of the Kolkata Police disaster management group told news agency PTI.

There are allegations regarding the construction of the building and that tin sheets were used under the cement construction of the rooftop. 

"We will definitely look into the causes of the accident and whether there were any irregularities. But right now, the priority is to rescue as many victims as possible," West Bengal Minister Indranil Khan told PTI.

A specialised team of army rescue personnel, specialist engineers and medical personnel are assisting in rescue efforts. In coordination with the NDRF, SDRF and Kolkata Police, the Indian Army personnel are conducting the rescue operations.