A major rescue operation is underway in Kolkata's Taratala after an under-construction warehouse collapsed near the Brace Bridge transport depot on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities fear that between 50 and 60 workers were inside the structure when it came crashing down.
The warehouse, built with large iron beams and metal sheets, collapsed suddenly, trapping several workers under the debris. Firefighters, police personnel, Army teams and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rushed to the spot and launched rescue efforts soon after the incident.
Drones, cranes and earth movers pressed into service
Rescue teams are using a range of heavy equipment to clear the wreckage and reach those trapped underneath. Two large cranes, bullet chain saws, gas cutters and five to six earth movers have been deployed at the site.
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Dozens feared trapped under debris after Kolkata warehouse cave-in /ANI Workers are cutting through twisted iron beams with chain saws and gas cutters, while cranes are being used to lift and remove large sections of the collapsed structure. The operation is focused on creating safe access routes to reach labourers believed to be trapped beneath the debris.
Army and NDRF carry out round-the-clock search
Army personnel and NDRF teams are working together at the site as the search for survivors continues. Hydraulic ladders are also being used to access elevated sections of the damaged structure and look for people stranded inside.
Officials have deployed drones to survey the vast accident site from above. The aerial assessment is helping rescue teams identify areas where workers may still be trapped and guiding ground operations accordingly.
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12 workers rescued, several critically injured
According to available information, 12 workers had been rescued and shifted to SSKM Hospital till 4 pm. Several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition and are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital's Trauma Care Centre.
Rescue efforts remain in progress as teams continue to search through the debris for those who may still be trapped inside the collapsed warehouse.
