Visakhapatnam: A tragic incident occurred on Sunday evening when a single-storey building being lifted with hydraulic jacks caved in at Vikasnagar under New Port police station limits in Visakhapatnam city, resulting in the death of one worker and injuries to four others.
Details of the Incident
The owner of the structure had hired a contractor to raise the building's height without dismantling the walls or ceiling. The contractor engaged eight to ten labourers for the job. As the unskilled workers operated the jacks, the structure suddenly collapsed, causing panic among locals and prompting immediate rescue efforts.
Rescue and Response
Police, revenue, and rescue teams rushed to the spot to clear debris and ascertain the exact number of victims, as locals claimed two to three workers were trapped. The deceased worker's identity is yet to be established since the labourers came from different parts of Gajuwaka. The injured were shifted to a private hospital for treatment.
Investigation and Legal Action
Police and revenue officials are assessing the situation and probing reasons for the collapse. They stated that if negligence is found on the part of the house owner or contractor, appropriate action will follow. The police suspect the lifting of the building took place without the inspection of an engineer, leading to the collapse of the structure.
Fortunately, some workers managed to escape from death in the incident. The deceased person was around 35 years old, and the condition of the injured persons is said to be stable.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the collapse and ensure accountability.
