Kolkata, June 24: The tragic collapse of a warehouse roof in the Taratala area of Kolkata has resulted in five confirmed deaths, with several individuals still trapped under the debris.
On Wednesday evening, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the injured workers at SSKM Hospital to assess their conditions.
Speaking to reporters outside the government hospital, Adhikari stated that approximately 25 people have been rescued. Unfortunately, five individuals have lost their lives, and 20 others are hospitalized, with two in critical condition. All injured parties are receiving treatment, and some workers remain trapped but are alive, with contact established. The rescue operation is in full swing, and there is hope for their swift extraction.
According to police and fire brigade officials, around 12 to 15 people are still believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
Earlier in the day, Adhikari, accompanied by several ministers and government officials, visited the accident site to oversee the rescue efforts.
After the visit, the Chief Minister addressed the media at the state secretariat, Nabanna. He noted that the incident occurred at 12:07 PM. “I have just visited the accident site. I want to thank the Civil Defense, Fire Department, and Kolkata Police for their prompt rescue efforts, which saved many lives. I also extend my gratitude to the NDRF personnel. Indian Army soldiers are also working at the site,” he said.
Adhikari attributed the incident to faulty building plans for the warehouse and assured that action would be taken against the owners.
He revealed that the building plan was approved on January 17 of this year. Initially, KMC engineers indicated that there were discrepancies in the building plan. They are expected to provide a detailed report later today. The owners, identified as Behera Brothers, will face consequences.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced that all ongoing commercial property construction in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) area will be halted until July 31.
“I have instructed KMC to stop all construction on commercial properties until July 31. We will review their building plans and site conditions. Those with valid documents may resume work on August 1,” he added.
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