Underconstruction 5-storey building collapse kills 2, dozens injured

Part of a five-storey, under-construction building collapsed onto a nearby slum around 12.10 am on Monday in the Garden Reach area of Kolkata. At least 10 slum dwellers were injured in the incident, with rescue efforts currently underway.

A member of the state disaster management team, speaking anonymously, confirmed that 10 injured individuals were rescued and swiftly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Local residents reported a more somber toll, stating that two slum dwellers lost their lives, while approximately 15 others sustained injuries. As of 6:40 am, official confirmation on the total number of casualties is awaited.

The affected area falls under Kolkata Municipal Corporation’s (KMC) civic ward No 134, represented by Mayor Firhad Hakim since 2011. Mayor Hakim addressed the media saying, "from 12:30 in the night, I and Fire Minister Sujit Basu have been at the scene. The rescue work is still underway. We have managed to rescue 13-15 people out of about 22 who were trapped. Seven people are currently receiving treatment at the local hospital, while two have lost their lives."

"I have discussed with the Chief Minister that Rs 5 lakh will be given to the families of those who died. Those who were injured will be given compensation of Rs 1 lakh. The building has collapsed on the roof of the building and those who have been injured are very poor people. Police have been asked to arrest the promoter. This was an illegal house, we will make arrangements as per law," he added.