A major rescue operation is underway in Kolkata after an under-construction warehouse collapsed in the Taratala area on Wednesday, killing at least three workers and leaving several others feared trapped under the debris.
The accident took place at a construction site in West Kolkata’s busy industrial belt, where labourers were working when part of the structure suddenly gave way. Witnesses said they heard a loud crash before dust and rubble spread across the area, sending workers and nearby residents into panic.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, fire services, Kolkata Police and local authorities rushed to the spot soon after the collapse. Rescue workers began clearing the debris with heavy machinery and specialised equipment in an effort to reach the 12-18 trapped. 21 workers have been recued from the debris so far.
Officials said several workers were pulled out from the rubble and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. However, the exact number of people inside the warehouse at the time of the collapse is still not clear, and authorities fear more workers may remain buried.
Rescue operations continued late into the day as teams worked carefully to avoid triggering another collapse. Officials said the unstable condition of parts of the structure has made the operation difficult and slow.
Preliminary reports suggest the warehouse was still under construction when the incident occurred. Authorities have launched an investigation to find out what caused the collapse and whether safety lapses or construction violations played a role.
Local residents gathered near the site as the rescue effort went on, anxiously waiting for news of missing workers. Family members of those employed at the project also reached the spot and sought updates from officials.
