New Delhi: The death toll in the Virar building collapse in Maharashtra has risen to 17, officials confirmed on Thursday, as search and rescue operations entered the second day.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday when the rear portion of the Ramabai Apartment building suddenly caved in around 12.05 A.M., trapping several residents under the debris.
Condolences from the President
President Droupadi Murmu expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, stating, “The collapse of a building in Virar, Maharashtra, resulting in the death of several people, is extremely tragic. I express my condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this accident and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Rescue efforts have been ongoing for more than 24 hours, with two teams from the 5th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) engaged at the site. Officials confirmed that nine people have been pulled out alive, but operations are continuing amid fears that more victims may still be trapped.
CM Announces Relief Measures
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed anguish over the tragedy and announced financial assistance for the victims’ families.
“We share the sorrow of all these families, and at the same time, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the heirs of the deceased. Rescue operations have been underway with the help of NDRF for the past 48 hours, and they will conclude in the next few hours. So far, 9 people have been rescued safely,” the Chief Minister’s Office said in a statement.
Action Against Builder, Evacuation of Nearby Residents
In the aftermath, the Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) lodged a complaint against the builder, leading to his arrest. Authorities also evacuated all nearby chawls as a precaution, relocating residents to safer locations.
Shelter and Aid for Displaced Families
The collapse has left several families homeless. Currently, displaced residents are being accommodated at Chandansar Samaj Mandir, where arrangements have been made for food, drinking water, medical care, and other essential assistance.