Surat: A six-story residential building in Surat’s Sachin Pali village crumbled like a house of cards today, leaving 15 people injured and several others feared trapped under the debris. The incident occurred amidst relentless rains that have battered the region for days.
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are on-site, tirelessly searching for survivors. As of now, one woman has been successfully rescued, but the voices of trapped individuals can still be heard from the rubble. The fire brigade and police are working in tandem to locate and extricate those caught in the collapse.
Building’s Dilapidated Condition
Local sources suggest that the ill-fated building, located in the GIDC area of Surat city, was already in a precarious state. The incessant downpour over the past few days likely exacerbated its structural weaknesses, leading to the sudden collapse. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about other vulnerable structures in the vicinity.
No Casualties Confirmed Yet
While no fatalities have been officially reported, the possibility of people being buried under the debris remains. The relief and rescue teams are using heavy machinery, including JCBs, to clear the rubble and expedite the search and rescue efforts. Authorities are urging residents to stay away from the site to facilitate the operation.
Echoes of a Past Tragedy
This isn’t the first time Gujarat has witnessed such a disaster. Last year, in Junagadh, heavy rains triggered the collapse of a two-story building, resulting in the loss of two lives and injuries to six others. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for robust infrastructure maintenance and disaster preparedness in the face of extreme weather events.
As the rescue teams continue their painstaking work, the nation holds its breath, hoping for more survivors to emerge from the debris. Our thoughts are with the affected families during this difficult time.
