Meerut: – The death toll from the tragic collapse of a three-story building in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, continues to rise, with reports confirming that nine lives have been lost so far. The incident, which occurred in Zakir Colony under the Lohia Nagar police station on Saturday evening, has left the city in shock as rescue operations continue.
The building, which was around 50 years old, crumbled during heavy rains, trapping nearly 15 members of a single family under the debris. By Sunday morning, rescue teams had saved six people, who were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. However, the death toll is expected to rise as rescuers race against time to find more survivors.
The Collapse and Rescue Efforts
The ill-fated building, which stood on a 300-square-yard plot, had a dairy operating on the ground floor. With a foundation that had weakened over time, relentless rainwater further compromised the structure’s stability. Shockingly, it was revealed that the entire building rested on a single pillar, which was unable to withstand the burden, causing the building to collapse with a thunderous crash.
As news of the collapse spread on Saturday evening, local authorities, including the police and fire department, rushed to the scene. Working alongside the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), they launched a rescue operation that has continued non-stop for over 13 hours. With the use of heavy machinery and local assistance, efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and search for any remaining survivors.
CM Yogi Adityanath Takes Notice
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken serious notice of the incident, instructing relief and rescue teams to expedite their operations. He has also directed local officials to ensure that the injured receive proper medical care and urged authorities to intensify relief measures at the scene.
While the exact cause of the collapse is still under investigation, the tragic event has highlighted the growing concerns over aging buildings in the region, particularly those with compromised foundations and inadequate structural support.
Community in Mourning
The collapse has left the residents of Zakir Colony and the entire Meerut district in grief. Families gathered at the site of the tragedy, waiting for news of their loved ones, as rescue teams continue to work tirelessly. The somber mood was palpable as people stood by, hoping for a miracle but bracing for the worst.
As the rescue operation progresses, officials are also assessing the safety of nearby buildings, fearing similar incidents could occur if proper precautions are not taken. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of building safety standards, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
A Tragic Reminder
This disaster in Meerut is one in a string of building collapses in India, raising questions about infrastructure and safety regulations. With the loss of nine lives and many more injured, the focus now shifts to accountability, as authorities aim to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
For now, Meerut holds its breath, praying for more survivors as the rescue operation enters a critical phase.
