Chandigarh: A tragic incident unfolded in Chandigarh’s Industrial Area, Phase II, on Sunday evening when an old two-storey building suddenly gave way, trapping several people beneath the rubble. Two people lost their lives in the collapse, while three others were pulled out alive after an extensive rescue operation.
Emergency teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident was reported. Personnel from the fire department, police, and disaster response units launched a coordinated search and rescue mission that continued for nearly five and a half hours before all those trapped were located.
Officials said three individuals were rescued from the debris and shifted to hospital for medical treatment. Unfortunately, two others could not be saved. They were taken to the Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, where doctors declared them brought dead.
The collapse triggered panic in the area as local residents and workers gathered near the site while rescue teams worked through the debris using heavy machinery and manual equipment.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact reason behind the collapse, but preliminary indications suggest the structure was old. A detailed investigation has been initiated to determine whether structural weakness or any other factor contributed to the incident.
The area around the building has been cordoned off as officials continue to inspect nearby structures to ensure public safety. Civic authorities are also expected to assess whether additional ageing buildings in the industrial area require immediate structural evaluation to prevent similar incidents in the future.
