The death toll in the warehouse collapse near Brace Bridge in Taratala has risen to eleven, even as rescue operations continued into Thursday morning with fears that more workers remain trapped beneath the debris. Police have apprehended the warehouse owner, Shambhunath Behera, and four others in connection with the incident. A joint search operation is being carried out by the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire services, and other emergency agencies. So far, 30 workers have been rescued from the site.
On Thursday morning, the Army began deploying advanced technology to aid the rescue effort. Specialised cameras are being inserted into narrow crevices within the rubble to assess conditions inside. Live footage is being monitored on laptops to help teams identify the locations of potentially trapped workers. Areas indicating possible signs of life are being marked before the debris is carefully cleared.
Rescue personnel have reported hearing intermittent sounds from within the collapsed structure, keeping hopes alive for more survivors. Officials described the ongoing operation as a race against time.
The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when the massive iron framework of the under-construction warehouse suddenly gave way. Reports suggest that around 50 to 60 workers were present at the site at the time, many of whom were buried under heavy iron beams and construction materials.
Since the collapse, personnel from the Army, NDRF, fire services, and disaster management teams have been deployed at the site. Heavy machinery and gas cutters are being used to dismantle the wreckage while ensuring the safety of both rescuers and those potentially trapped.
Meanwhile, investigating agencies are probing allegations of negligence and possible corruption in the construction process. Officials suspect multiple irregularities related to construction design, safety measures, and quality standards.
Among the deceased is a 19-year-old migrant worker, whose body has already been sent to his native village.
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