A massive iron roof of an underconstruction tea warehouse collapsed in Kolkata’s Taratala on Wednesday with several workers feared trapped under the debris. Reports indicate that their pleas for help could be heard from underneath the wreckage.
The incident took place near the Brace Bridge in Taratala, close to the bus depot. As per latest reports, several wokers have sustained serious injuries owing to the incident.
Police and disaster management teams have arrived at the scene; bulldozers and gas cutters have been brought in for rescue operations. Efforts are currently underway to cut through the heavy iron beams and sections of the shed to extricate those trapped inside.
Reports indicate that gas cutters are being used with extreme caution ensuring that those trapped inside do not sustain further injuries. The dense neighbourhood is posing challenges to the rescue operations, they mentioned.
As per local sources construction work at the tea warehouse next to the transport depot near the Taratala’s Brace Bridge was underway for some time. On Wednesday, workers had come to the place as usual. A loud sound was heard in the area as the massive heavy iron shed and a section of the roof collapsed.
A large police contingent from the local station and members of the Kolkata Police Disaster Management Group (DMG) rushed to the spot soon after they were informed. Ambulances have been called in as several injured workers have been rescued. Arrangements are on to rush them to a local hospital via a ‘green corridor.’
Following the incident, questions have been raised about the quality of construction. Police have launched an investigation into the incident to find out if there has been any negligence in the installation of the iron shed.
Officials from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and relevant departments are expected to visit the spot.
Agnimitra Paul reaches site
West Bengal Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul has reached the site in Taratala soon after the incident to oversee the rescue operations.
Visuals from the spot have captured the Bengal cabinet Minister being briefed by a senior official about the ongoing resuce operation.
“We are creating a pathway so that we can get in and rescue those trapped underneath,” the official said.