July 18, 2025: A three-storey chawl structure collapsed early Friday morning in the Bharat Nagar area of Bandra East, Mumbai, triggering a major rescue operation as several people were feared trapped under the debris. The incident occurred at approximately 5:56 AM, according to civic officials.
At least 12 people have been rescued from the rubble and rushed to the Bhabha Hospital for treatment. Their condition is currently being monitored. Seven more individuals are feared trapped, as reported by news agency ANI.
Initial reports suggest that the collapse was triggered by a cylinder blast within the building, causing a portion of the structure to cave in suddenly. The exact cause is yet to be confirmed by authorities.
Emergency teams from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, Mumbai Police, and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are actively engaged in search and rescue operations at the site. Eight fire engines have been deployed, along with support from local ward officials and disaster response units.
“Search and rescue operations are underway. Further details will be provided after the area is cleared and the situation is fully assessed,” an official from the fire brigade stated.
This incident comes as a grim reminder of the structural vulnerabilities in many of Mumbai’s older residential settlements, especially during the monsoon season, when such accidents are more frequent.
Authorities are urging residents in nearby buildings to stay alert, and evacuation protocols are being evaluated to prevent further casualties.
Further updates are awaited as the rescue operation continues.