Panic gripped parts of central Kolkata on the morning of Dol Utsav after a portion of an old building suddenly collapsed in the Park Street area. The incident occurred on Elliot Road under the jurisdiction of Park Street police station.

According to police sources, a section of the roof cornice of the building gave way and crashed into the inner courtyard. A scooter and a bicycle parked there were damaged after a large chunk of debris fell on them. Fortunately, no one was inside the building at the time, preventing what could have been a major tragedy.

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An eyewitness from the neighbourhood said he had been at the spot just seconds before the collapse and survived by sheer luck. The incident triggered panic in the area, following which a large police contingent from Park Street police station reached the site and cordoned off the area.

Local residents claimed the building, believed to be at least 150 years old, had long been in a dilapidated condition due to a lack of renovation. They also pointed out that a strong earthquake had jolted Kolkata on the 27th, which may have further weakened the already fragile structure.

Police said the residents of the building are currently outside, and efforts are underway to contact them. Authorities are examining all possible angles, including structural damage and safety concerns, as part of the ongoing inquiry.