In a tragic incident in Surat’s Sachin Pali village, a six-storey building collapsed today, leaving several people injured and many feared trapped under the debris. The incident occurred amidst ongoing heavy rainfall in the region, further complicating rescue operations.
Details of the Incident
The building, constructed just eight years ago, collapsed this afternoon while five families were inside. Authorities reported that one woman has been rescued alive so far, but at least 15 people have sustained injuries. Horrifying visuals from the scene depict a chaotic scene of concrete slabs and debris piled atop each other, highlighting the scale of the collapse.
Rescue Operations
Promptly responding to the emergency, local police and fire department officials initiated rescue operations immediately after the collapse. They were soon joined by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), intensifying efforts to locate and extract those trapped under the rubble. Despite the challenging conditions caused by the incessant rains, officials remain optimistic about the rescue efforts.
Official Statements
Dr. Saurabh Parghi, Surat’s District Collector, provided insights into the ongoing rescue mission, stating, “We rescued one woman a while ago. According to her, four or five more could be trapped inside. Teams of the NDRF and SDRF have been pressed into action. We are hopeful that we will be able to rescue the rest within a few hours.”
Surat’s Police Commissioner, Anupam Singh Gehlot, echoed this optimism, assuring, “We can hear their voices from inside the rubble. They will be rescued within an hour or two.”
Building Condition and Local Accounts
Authorities have noted that despite its relatively recent construction, the building was in a dilapidated state with several flats reportedly vacant. Eyewitnesses recounted the chaotic moments of the collapse, emphasizing how locals rushed to assist in the rescue efforts as soon as the building crumbled.
Conclusion
As rescue operations continue into the evening, the focus remains on safely extricating any remaining individuals trapped under the wreckage. The unfolding situation in Surat underscores the critical need for stringent building safety standards and effective disaster response measures.
Sources By Agencies
