Kolkata, June 26: In the aftermath of a tragic warehouse roof collapse in Kolkata, Eastern Railway has mobilized to assist in the extensive rescue and relief operations. The incident has claimed the lives of 15 individuals, with 18 others currently receiving treatment at the state-run SSKM Hospital.
The rescue efforts involve multiple agencies, including the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Kolkata Police, and other organizations.
Eastern Railway has actively participated in the relief operations with its team and equipment. A railway team from the Howrah and Sealdah divisions, along with personnel from the Liluah workshop, began cutting through the debris at 5 PM on June 26 to check for any individuals still trapped. They utilized tools like ‘cold cutters’ that generate minimal to no heat, ensuring the safety of those potentially trapped.
A spokesperson for the railway stated that a 70-member team equipped with advanced tools is engaged in the relief work. This includes 10 oxy-cutting sets, 6 abrasive cutters, and 3 plasma cutting units, which are being used to cut through heavy debris and twisted steel structures.
According to rescue workers, this operation has turned into a mission against both time and challenges. The rescue team has committed to continuing operations until the last person is rescued, regardless of their condition.
The NDRF team is employing dog squads and infrared equipment to locate individuals trapped in the debris. The Army has also deployed ground-penetrating radar to assist in the search.
The warehouse was being constructed by a private company on land belonging to Syama Prasad Mukherjee Port Kolkata in the Taratala area of Kolkata. This land was leased for 35 years in 2024.
In connection with the incident, five individuals have been arrested on charges of negligence. The Chief Minister of West Bengal has accused the previous state government of approving faulty plans that led to this disaster.
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