Key Highlights
- Tragic Incident: A four-story building in Mohali, Punjab, collapsed during basement excavation, resulting in one confirmed death and multiple injuries.
- Rescue Operations: NDRF and local authorities are working tirelessly to rescue those trapped under the debris.
- Illegal Excavation: Building owners lacked permission for basement digging; police have registered a case against them.
- Casualties and Injuries: One woman confirmed dead, and several others are hospitalized; exact numbers of trapped and injured individuals remain unclear.
- Evacuation of Area: Surrounding buildings have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Mohali, Punjab: A devastating building collapse in Sohana village, Mohali, on Saturday evening has claimed one life and left many injured. The four-story structure came crashing down during unauthorized basement excavation, sparking chaos and panic in the neighborhood.
The Incident
At around 4:30 PM, the building, located in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, suddenly began vibrating before collapsing like a house of cards. Witnesses reported that the structure fell in mere seconds, leaving no time for the occupants to escape.
The building housed a gym and several residential apartments. Many families were inside when the incident occurred, raising fears that numerous people may still be trapped under the rubble.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency services, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police, are racing against time to save lives. Relief and rescue teams have been working relentlessly, evacuating the surrounding area and carefully sifting through the debris to locate survivors.
As of now, one woman has been confirmed dead, while several injured individuals are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. The exact number of people trapped or injured remains uncertain.
Illegal Excavation to Blame
Initial investigations have revealed that the building owners, Parwinder Singh and Gagandeep Singh, lacked permission to carry out basement excavation. The unauthorized digging compromised the building’s structural integrity, leading to the tragic collapse.
The police have registered a case against the two owners under relevant sections, including Section 105 of the BNS Act, at the Sohana Police Station. However, both accused are currently absconding, and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
Community in Shock
Local residents expressed their grief and anger over the incident, highlighting the negligence and disregard for safety norms. Authorities have evacuated nearby buildings as a precautionary measure, fearing further structural damage in the vicinity.
Official Statements Awaited
While rescue operations continue, officials have yet to provide a comprehensive update on the total number of casualties and the status of those trapped under the rubble. The administration has assured strict action against those responsible for the mishap.
Negligence Costs Lives
This tragedy underscores the dire consequences of ignoring safety regulations and engaging in unauthorized construction activities. The incident has left a community in mourning, with urgent calls for stricter enforcement of building norms and accountability for those who flout them.
Further updates are expected as rescue operations progress and investigations unfold.
