At least three workers died, and 50 to 60 others were feared trapped after the roof of an under-construction warehouse collapsed in Taratala, south Kolkata, on Wednesday afternoon.
Rescue teams from the NDRF, Army, fire services, and Kolkata Police rushed to the site and began operations using cranes and gas cutters to clear mangled iron beams and concrete.
Officials confirmed that 13 workers had been rescued and shifted to SSKM Hospital, with five in critical condition. Hospital sources earlier reported 11 injured workers admitted to the trauma care centre. Locals said cries could still be heard from beneath the rubble as rescuers cut through twisted metal to reach those trapped.
Residents stated the roof suddenly gave way while dozens of labourers were working inside. Some locals pulled out workers before police and emergency teams arrived. Preliminary reports suggested welding issues or heavy rain the previous day may have weakened the structure.
West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul visited the site, joined by State Minister Indranil Khan, Kolkata Municipal Corporation Commissioner Smita Pandey, and BJP leader Rakesh Singh. A control room was opened at Nabanna to monitor the situation, with ambulances stationed nearby to transport the injured.
CPI(M) leader Fayaz Ahmad Khan blamed authorities, alleging illegal work had continued despite complaints. He demanded accountability from the state government for the casualties.
Rescue teams continued working late into the evening, lifting heavy roof sections and cutting iron beams to reach survivors.
