Building collapse in India kills at least 11
New Delhi, June 10 (EFE).- At least 11 people died when a residential building collapsed on another in Mumbai after heavy monsoon rains lashed the financial capital of India, officials said on Thursday.
The accident took place late Wednesday in a congested northern suburb of the densely populated city, known for such tragedies, particularly during the monsoon.
The city municipal corporation said a three-story residential building collapsed on another adjoining smaller structure, causing deaths and injuries to 17 people.
“As per updates, 11 people have been reported dead so far. We hope for the quick recovery of the injured,” the municipal corporation said in a tweet.
According to the city authorities, searchers rescued seven people from the debris before evacuating them to a hospital.
“The search and rescue operation by the fire brigade is still going on,” the civic authority said.
The city received heavy rains, causing flooding in large parts on Wednesday.
The heavy downpour, the first for the monsoon season this year, continued on Thursday.
The Indian Meteorology Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in the city and three adjoining districts of the western state of Maharashtra.
Building collapses are common in India, mainly due to poor infrastructure and the lack of maintenance.
The monsoon season enhances the possibility of such tragedies as poorly-built building structures cave in due to heavy monsoon rains.
Last September, at least 20 people died after a residential building collapsed in Maharashtra, home to Mumbai, the regional capital and the commercial and entertainment hub of India.
A month earlier, 16 people were killed in a building collapse in the state. EFE
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