At least three people lost their lives after a four-storey residential building collapsed in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, late on Thursday night. Rescue teams are continuing operations as several people are still feared trapped under the debris.
The building, which had 48 rooms, reportedly collapsed at around 11.30 pm. According to officials, the structure had already been declared dangerous by the civic body and repair work was underway at the time of the incident.
Residents said they heard cracking sounds from the building hours before the collapse. Local authorities were informed, and many families were evacuated as a precaution. However, some people and workers were still inside when a section of the building suddenly came crashing down.
Officials said three bodies have been recovered so far. Six people were rescued from the rubble, including an injured boy who was taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities believe that several others may still be trapped.
A massive rescue operation is underway with teams from the NDRF, TDRF, fire services and police working at the site. Dog squads, ambulances, fire engines and heavy machinery have also been deployed to speed up the search.
Officials said efforts are continuing to locate survivors and clear the debris safely.