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The tragic collapse of a four-story building in Mohali, Punjab, has resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals and left many others feared trapped under the rubble for over seventeen hours. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, sparked a massive multi-agency rescue operation involving the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Team (NDRF). Among the victims identified is Drishti Verma, a 20-year-old woman from Himachal Pradesh, who was rescued in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries at Sohana Hospital. The body of another victim, Abhishek from Ambala, Haryana, was recovered later. The sheer scale of the devastation and the extended period individuals remained trapped underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency of the rescue efforts. The tireless work of emergency responders, working through the night and into the following day, highlights the commitment to saving lives in the face of such a catastrophic event.
The ongoing investigation into the cause of the collapse has already yielded some initial findings. Senior police officer Deepak Pareek revealed that the building's owner had been conducting unauthorized excavation work on an adjacent plot. This revelation has led to the filing of a case against the building owners, Parwinder Singh and Gagandeep Singh, under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to culpable homicide not amounting to murder. This legal action underscores the severity of the situation and the potential for criminal charges stemming from negligence or violations of building codes. The investigation will undoubtedly delve deeper into the structural integrity of the building, the permissibility of the excavation work, and any other contributing factors that may have led to this devastating collapse. Determining accountability and ensuring justice for the victims and their families will be a crucial aspect of the aftermath.
The response from local and state authorities has been swift and multifaceted. The District Administration established a control room to coordinate rescue efforts and provide information to concerned individuals. Several hospitals, including Civil Hospital Mohali, Fortis, Max, and Sohana Hospital, were placed on high alert to receive and treat the injured. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has personally monitored the situation, expressing his sorrow over the incident and assuring the public of the government’s commitment to rescue and investigation. The Chief Minister's active engagement, coupled with the establishment of a helpline number (0172-2219506), demonstrates a concerted effort to provide support and disseminate information to the public. The ongoing rescue operations, alongside the parallel investigation into the causes of the collapse, represent a comprehensive response to this tragic event.
The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter building regulations and enforcement to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The unauthorized excavation work points to a possible disregard for safety protocols, raising concerns about the prevalence of such practices and the potential risks they pose to public safety. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regular inspections, adherence to building codes, and effective oversight to ensure the structural integrity and safety of buildings. Furthermore, the swift response from the authorities demonstrates the importance of coordinated emergency response systems in managing such crises effectively and minimizing the loss of life. The long-term consequences of this event extend beyond the immediate loss of life and will undoubtedly prompt a critical evaluation of building safety regulations and enforcement practices within the region.
The emotional toll on the victims’ families, as well as the wider community, is immeasurable. The loss of life and the uncertainty surrounding those still trapped under the rubble have created an atmosphere of grief and anxiety. The community will likely require extensive support in the coming days, weeks, and months to cope with the aftermath of this tragedy. Beyond the immediate rescue and investigation, there will be a need for long-term support for the affected families, including psychological assistance, financial aid, and assistance in rebuilding their lives. The collective effort to overcome the trauma and rebuild after such a devastating event will be a lengthy process, demanding the commitment of both the community and the authorities.
Source: 2 Dead, Many Feared Trapped For 17 Hours After Mohali Building Collapse