1 killed in Bhiwandi building collapse; several feared trapped
Source Entity
PRADEEP GUPTA
A four-storey building collapse in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, has resulted in at least four fatalities with several others feared trapped. The structure, previously marked as dangerous by local authorities, crumbled during ongoing repair work, prompting a massive rescue operation by the NDRF and local fire services.
Tragedy in Bhiwandi: Structural Collapse Claims Lives
A devastating incident occurred late Thursday night in the Balaji Nagar area of Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, when a four-storey residential structure known as the Kohinoor Apartment partially collapsed. The incident has resulted in the confirmed death of at least four individuals, with authorities expressing grave concerns that as many as 11 people—comprising both labourers and residents—may remain trapped under the debris. The collapse has triggered a large-scale emergency response involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Thane Disaster Response Force (TDRF), and local fire brigades.
A Known Hazard
The collapse of the Kohinoor Apartment is particularly distressing as the structure had previously been identified and officially declared 'dangerous' by the Bhiwandi Nizampur City Municipal Corporation (BNCMC). Despite this classification, the building remained occupied and was undergoing repair work at the time of the incident. The presence of labourers inside the building when it gave way highlights a recurring and dangerous pattern of attempting to retrofit or patch up structurally unsound buildings rather than evacuating or demolishing them, a common issue in dense, older urban environments.
The Rescue Operation
Rescue efforts have been ongoing since the structure failed around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday. Emergency teams are utilizing heavy machinery to carefully clear the rubble, a process complicated by the unstable nature of the remaining debris. While one woman and an injured boy were successfully pulled from the wreckage and transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent care, the search continues for the remaining victims. The recovery of the deceased, including one individual identified as Shamim, underscores the extreme peril faced by those caught within the 48-room complex.
Urban Planning and Safety Implications
This tragedy brings the issue of urban safety and municipal enforcement in Bhiwandi to the forefront. The town, known as a major powerloom hub, often grapples with aging infrastructure and illegal construction. The fact that a building labeled 'dangerous' was still being actively repaired suggests a systemic failure in enforcing eviction notices and ensuring that residents vacate high-risk zones. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the necessity for stricter oversight regarding building maintenance and the enforcement of safety standards in high-density areas.
Historical Context and Future Trends
Building collapses during the monsoon or in older industrial towns are unfortunately not uncommon in Maharashtra. These events often stem from a combination of poor construction materials, unauthorized modifications, and neglect of structural integrity reports. Moving forward, authorities will likely face intense scrutiny regarding why the building was not secured despite its 'dangerous' status. This incident will likely necessitate a broader audit of similar structures in the Bhiwandi-Nizampur region to prevent future loss of life, as the focus shifts from rescue to investigation and accountability.