Four-storey residential building partially collapses in Bhiwandi as rescue teams continue search operations in Thane district
Thane: At least nine people have died after a portion of a four-storey residential building collapsed in Maharashtra's Thane district late Thursday night. The incident occurred in Bhiwandi's powerloom hub, where emergency response teams are continuing search and rescue operations amid concerns that additional occupants may have been trapped under the debris.
Officials confirmed that the collapse occurred at the Kohinoor Building, located in the Balaji Nagar–Narpoli area of Bhiwandi. According to preliminary information, a section of the building's 'B' Wing collapsed at around 11:30 pm on Thursday.
"Nine fatalities have been confirmed, while rescue teams continue operations to trace any remaining occupants beneath the debris."
Bhiwandi Building Collapse Rescue Operation Underway
Emergency agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Thane Disaster Response Force (TDRF) and the local fire brigade, were immediately deployed to the site. Personnel are carrying out systematic search operations using rescue equipment to locate survivors trapped inside the collapsed portion of the structure.
Authorities have stated that rescue efforts will continue until every section of the debris is thoroughly examined.
Residents Reported Cracking Sounds Before Collapse
According to local reports, residents heard loud cracking noises at around 9:00 pm, nearly two hours before the collapse. The sounds prompted concern among those living in the building.
Local volunteers reportedly evacuated several families from the affected wing shortly before the structure gave way. Their timely intervention is believed to have reduced the number of casualties.
"Several families were evacuated before the collapse, preventing further loss of life," according to information shared by local responders.
Injured Shifted to Hospital After Bhiwandi Building Collapse
Rescue teams pulled several people alive from the debris, including a child and a woman. The injured were shifted to the IGM Hospital for medical treatment.
Officials have not yet released the identities of the deceased. Medical teams remain on standby as rescue personnel continue clearing debris at the site.
Investigation Into Bhiwandi Building Collapse Begins
Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the structural failure. Officials are expected to examine the condition of the building, its maintenance history and compliance with construction safety regulations.
Further details regarding the incident and the final casualty count are expected after rescue operations conclude and the structural assessment is completed.
