Kolkata: The death toll in the collapse of an under-construction warehouse shed in Kolkata’s Taratala area has risen to eight, with rescue teams continuing a massive operation to search for any remaining victims trapped beneath the debris.
Officials said personnel from the Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Kolkata Police, fire services and other emergency agencies have been working continuously at the accident site since the structure came crashing down. Heavy machinery and specialised rescue equipment are being used to remove large sections of concrete and twisted metal from the wreckage.
The tragic incident occurred when a shed being erected as part of a warehouse project suddenly collapsed, trapping several workers who were present at the site. While a number of people were rescued during the initial hours of the operation, authorities confirmed that the number of fatalities has steadily increased as more bodies have been recovered from the debris.
Rescue personnel faced significant challenges due to the unstable condition of the collapsed structure. Teams have been proceeding cautiously to avoid triggering further cave-ins while attempting to reach inaccessible sections of the site.
Officials said medical teams and ambulances remain stationed nearby to provide immediate assistance if additional survivors are located. Several injured workers have already been admitted to hospitals, where they continue to receive treatment.
The incident has prompted a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. Authorities are expected to examine construction records, structural designs and safety protocols followed at the project. Engineers and technical experts have also been asked to assess whether there were any lapses in construction practices or compliance with safety standards.
The tragedy has sparked concerns about worker safety at large construction sites, particularly projects involving heavy industrial infrastructure. Labour organisations and safety experts have reiterated the need for strict monitoring of ongoing construction activities and regular inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.
Meanwhile, family members of the victims have gathered near the site and at local hospitals, anxiously awaiting updates from authorities. The state administration has assured all possible support to the affected families and has directed officials to coordinate relief and assistance measures.
As the rescue operation enters a critical phase, authorities remain focused on ensuring that every section of the debris is thoroughly searched. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional victims being found as recovery efforts continue.
The Taratala collapse is being regarded as one of the most serious industrial construction accidents in the city in recent years, with investigators now working to determine the exact cause of the disaster and identify accountability for the loss of lives.
