Kolkata Warehouse Roof Collapse: Rescue Operations Underway as Workers Call for Help

Kolkata, June 24: A tragic incident occurred in Kolkata’s Taratala area when the roof of an under-construction warehouse collapsed. Workers at the site reported hearing the cries of their colleagues trapped beneath the debris.

Authorities estimate that between 50 to 60 workers may be trapped inside. Soni Devi, a worker at the warehouse, shared her distress, stating, “We received a call at 11 AM saying the entire structure has collapsed. Please come and rescue us. I came from afar and couldn’t even drop my child at school. There are 13 people inside. They are shouting for help, but their phones are switched off.”

Another worker informed reporters that typically, 40 to 50 laborers were employed at the site. “People are still trapped. We can hear their screams from under the rubble. Usually, 30 to 40 people work here at all times,” he added.

Rescue operations commenced immediately, with approximately 13 workers successfully rescued. The injured were transported to SSKM Hospital, where five individuals are reported to be in critical condition.

The Indian Army, NDRF, fire brigade, and Kolkata police are conducting rescue efforts at a war footing. Cranes and gas cutters have been brought in to remove the fallen roof sections.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is expected to visit the site later on Wednesday to assess the situation. Meanwhile, the state’s Minister for Municipal Affairs and Urban Development, Agnimitra Paul, has already arrived at the scene to oversee the rescue operations.

Local reports indicate that the roof of the warehouse suddenly collapsed on Wednesday afternoon while many workers were inside. Initially, local residents began the rescue efforts before police, fire brigade, and NDRF teams arrived on the scene.

Preliminary information suggests that an issue arose during welding work inside the factory. At that time, 50 to 60 workers were reportedly present. Some locals speculated that heavy rainfall on Tuesday may have weakened the construction materials, leading to the sudden collapse.

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