At least three people have been killed and more than 18 rescued after the roof of an under-construction warehouse collapsed in South Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon, trapping dozens of workers beneath the debris. Authorities fear that over 40 people may still be buried under the rubble as an intensive rescue operation continues.
The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. near the Taratala Transport Depot on Transport Depot Road, close to Brace Bridge. According to police officials, the structure's shed suddenly gave way while construction work was underway, causing a massive pile-up of concrete, steel rods, and debris.
Rescue Operations Intensify
Rescue teams from the Kolkata Police, Disaster Management Group, Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, and the Indian Army have been deployed to the site. Heavy machinery, including cranes, has been brought in to clear the wreckage and assist in locating trapped workers.
Officials confirmed that 18 people have been pulled out alive and rushed to the Trauma Care Centre of SSKM Hospital for treatment. The condition of several injured workers remains critical.
Rescuers are using gas cutters to slice through twisted steel reinforcements while carefully removing debris to avoid triggering further collapses. Authorities said voices and cries for help have been heard from beneath the rubble, raising hopes that more survivors can still be rescued.
Collapse During Concrete Work
Local residents reported that concrete pouring work was underway when the structure suddenly collapsed. Many workers were reportedly present inside the warehouse at the time of the accident, leading to fears of a high casualty count. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as workers attempted to flee moments after hearing loud cracking sounds.
Several labourers were trapped instantly under falling concrete slabs and steel frameworks.
Authorities Monitor Situation
Senior police officers and district administration officials have reached the site to oversee rescue efforts. The area has been cordoned off, and access has been restricted to emergency personnel.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the collapse. Structural engineers and safety experts are expected to examine the site once rescue operations are completed. A formal investigation is likely to determine whether construction safety norms were violated.
Families Await News
As rescue operations continue into the evening, anxious family members have gathered near the accident site and hospitals, waiting for information about their loved ones. Officials have assured that every possible effort is being made to locate and rescue those still trapped. The tragedy has once again raised concerns about construction safety standards and oversight at large infrastructure and industrial projects across the city.