A Mid-Rise Building Collapses in Gujarat, Rescue Operations Underway

A mid-rise building collapsed in Surat, Gujarat, on Saturday, triggering a frantic rescue effort as fears grew over numerous people potentially trapped under the debris. The tragic incident occurred in Surat's Sachin GIDC area, where the building, which housed a family of tenants, suddenly gave way.

“As per primary information, almost 4-5 flats were occupied. One lady has been rescued...Both NDRF and SDRF teams are working,” said Surat collector Sourabh Pardhi.

Emergency response teams from the police and fire departments quickly mobilized to the scene to initiate rescue operations. Currently, efforts are focused on clearing the rubble to reach any trapped individuals. The building, reportedly constructed in 2017 in Pali village within Sachin GIDC, was known to be in a deteriorating condition before its collapse. It is estimated that between 10 to 15 residents of the building are feared trapped.

Senior officials, including Deputy Mayor Narendra Patil, have arrived at the site to oversee the rescue operations. Surat Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot confirmed that the building comprised 30 flats, accommodating several families. "The collapse was reported promptly, and rescue teams were on-site within minutes," Gehlot stated. "We managed to rescue a woman from the debris. According to initial reports, multiple people were inside the building at the time of the collapse." Further investigations, including the arrival of a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team, aim to determine the cause of the collapse and hold any negligent parties accountable.