8 killed in building collapase in Mumbai; many feared trapped

At least eight persons were killed and more than 30 others are feared trapped after a century-old building caves in off Pakmodia Street near the Sir JJ Hospital in south Mumbai on Thursday.

According to civic officials and rescue teams, 15 persons have been rescued from the debris of the four-storeyed structure.Of the injured, five of them are in critical condition at the Sir JJ Hospital. Two firemen also sustained injuries during the operations. "Rescue operations on war footing have started," said local BJP corporator Atul Shah.

Health Minister Dr Deepak Sawant is currently at the hospital meeting the doctors to review the situation and speaking to the victims.Industries Minister Subhash Desai after visiting the spot announced a high-level probe into the collapse. Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar and Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta are at the spot to review the rescue relief operation.

Chief fire officer Prabhat Rahangdale said that firemen also noticed smoke coming out of the debris. "It was an old building and nearly 30 are feared trapped," said local Congress MLA Amin



Patel.

So far, five persons have been rescued from the debris. No deaths have been reported so far. Teams of BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation, Mumbai Fire Brigade and Mumbai Police have rushed to the spot.

The building collapsed around 0830 hrs. Corporator Atul Shah said that the building was big and at least 100 to 125 years old.

Shah spoke to Maharahstra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and briefed him about the incident. "The CM has asked authorities to extend all possible help and trapped persons," he said.

Eye-witnesses said that there were 12 flats in the building and six godowns. Since it is was morning time, more people were inside the building.It is not yet known whether it is building figured in the list of dilapidated buildings of the BMC. Teams of NDRF, which were in Mumbai on a stand by mode in view of the torrential rains, are also rushing to the spot.

The rescued persons have been rushed to the Sir JJ Hospital. The place is congested and has narrow roads and rescuers are facing difficulty in reaching the equipments.