Kolkata warehouse collapse: Death toll up at 15; rescue operations continue for 3rd day

2 min readKolkataJun 26, 2026 02:48 PM IST

The roof of the under-construction structure suddenly collapsed on Wednesday, trapping numerous workers beneath heavy concrete slabs, iron beams, and debris. (File Photo)

The death toll from the roof collapse at an under-construction warehouse in Kolkata’s Taratala area rose to 15 on Friday, with emergency teams recovering two more bodies from the debris. Additionally, two workers succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment.

The roof of the under-construction structure suddenly gave way on Wednesday, trapping numerous workers beneath heavy concrete slabs, iron beams, and debris.

Rescue teams comprising Kolkata Police, Fire Services, NDRF, and Indian Army personnel are utilising advanced equipment, cranes, cutters, and sniffer dogs to locate survivors. A total of 33 people have been rescued so far. A temporary medical camp has been set up at the site to provide immediate first aid before survivors are rushed to nearby medical facilities.

While rescue operations remain active, hospital sources report that a dedicated team of doctors is monitoring the victims, many of whom remain in critical condition.

In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have initiated strict legal and administrative actions. The police have arrested five individuals in connection with the structural collapse. The state government has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the dead and Rs 1 lakh for each injured victim. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has separately pledged Rs 2 lakh in financial assistance to the families of those who lost their lives.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced an immediate halt to all ongoing construction projects across Kolkata and its neighboring areas until they are cleared by a newly formed, state-appointed audit committee.

The audit committee will be headed by Additional Chief Secretary Rajesh Pandey, Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand, Kolkata Municipal Commissioner Smita Pandey, and a representative from IIT Kharagpur.

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Suvendu Adhikari