What happened in the Bhiwandi building collapse

A four-storey residential building named “Kohinoor Building” in Bhiwandi (Maharashtra) collapsed late Thursday night while structural repairs were ongoing. Authorities reported 10 deaths and three injuries, and rescue operations were carried out to search for survivors.

Key reported details include the building’s size and the pre-collapse sequence reported by residents, including loud cracking around 9 p.m., evacuation initiation, and escape by some residents through a back gate. Authorities also reported that a three-year-old girl was among the rescued and that 10 bodies were recovered.

Rescue operations involved National Disaster Response Force, Thane Disaster Response Force, and the fire brigade. Authorities reported the use of heavy machinery and sniffer dogs for survivor search in the damaged area.

Background and earlier position: dangerous declaration, eviction steps, and illegal repairs

Maharashtra municipal authorities stated that Kohinoor Building was declared “dangerous” in September 2020, and repeated notices were issued. Municipal authorities further stated that eviction orders were served on June 5 and that electricity and water connections were snapped.