Rescue Operations Underway After Chawl Collapse in Mankhurd
At least five people are feared trapped after a portion of a chawl collapsed in Mumbai's Mankhurd area on Sunday evening, July 5, 2026, amid heavy rainfall. The incident occurred at Chawl No 5 in Janta Nagar, located behind Hanuman Mandir, at around 8:30 pm, according to local authorities.
Emergency response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigade, and police, have been deployed to the site for rescue operations. As of the latest reports, search and rescue efforts are ongoing to locate the trapped individuals. The exact number of people inside the structure at the time of the collapse is still being ascertained.
Heavy Rains Trigger Structural Failure
The collapse is attributed to the incessant heavy rainfall that has been lashing Mumbai and its suburbs over the past few days. The downpour weakened the already dilapidated structure of the chawl, leading to a partial collapse. Residents reported hearing a loud noise before the portion gave way.
Local civic officials have stated that the building was old and may have been structurally compromised. An investigation into the incident has been ordered to determine the cause of the collapse and to assess the safety of other similar structures in the area.
Impact on Residents and Ongoing Relief Efforts
Residents of the chawl have been evacuated to safer locations, and relief measures have been initiated by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The affected families are being provided with temporary shelter and essential supplies.
Mumbai has been experiencing heavy rainfall, leading to waterlogging and disruption of normal life in several parts of the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the city, warning of continued heavy to very heavy rainfall in the coming days. Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of old and poorly maintained buildings in Mumbai during the monsoon season. Similar collapses have occurred in the past, raising concerns about the safety of such structures and the need for regular inspections and timely repairs.
