A building collapsed in the Moshi area of Pune on Wednesday, leaving around a dozen people feared trapped under the debris. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed to assist in rescue operations, according to officials. No casualties have been reported so far, as teams work to locate and extricate those trapped.
Incident Details and Response
The collapse occurred in the Moshi area, a suburb of Pune, around midday. Local police and fire brigade teams were the first to arrive at the scene. Soon after, NDRF teams with sniffer dogs and specialized equipment joined the rescue effort. The building, which was under construction, is believed to have given way due to structural failure, though the exact cause is yet to be determined.
According to Pune Municipal Corporation officials, around 12 to 15 workers were present at the site when the structure caved in. Some managed to escape with minor injuries, while others remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams are using concrete cutters and drilling machines to clear the rubble.
Rescue Operations Underway
NDRF personnel are working in coordination with the Pune police and local administration. Senior officials from the district administration have also reached the spot to oversee the operations. The rescue work is being carried out cautiously to avoid further collapse. A team of doctors and ambulances have been stationed nearby to provide immediate medical aid.
“We are trying to reach the trapped people as soon as possible. The debris is heavy and we are using all available resources,” said an NDRF official on site. Local residents have gathered at the site, anxiously waiting for news of the trapped workers.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident. The builder and site supervisor are being questioned. The Pune Municipal Corporation has been directed to inspect all ongoing construction sites in the area for safety compliance. This incident has raised concerns about building safety standards in the rapidly urbanizing fringe areas of Pune.
In recent years, Pune has witnessed several such incidents, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of building regulations. The state government has assured strict action against those responsible for any negligence.
Impact and Community Response
The collapse has caused panic among local residents, many of whom live in similar under-construction or old buildings. Social workers and local politicians have appealed for a thorough investigation and compensation for the victims. The district administration has announced an ex gratia payment for the families of the deceased if any casualties are confirmed.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives. The NDRF has deployed additional teams from Mumbai to assist. Updates on the number of rescued and injured are expected later in the day.
