11-storey under-construction building collapses in Chennai, 50 feared trapped

Chief Minister Jayalalithaa orders measures to hasten the rescue operations

An 11-storey under-construction building collapsed at Moulivakkam near Porur in the western suburb, about 20 km from here on Saturday. Several persons are feared trapped under the debris, a fire and rescue services official said.

“Eleven floors seem to have been completed so far. The building collapsed suddenly according to statement of eyewitnesses,” fire and rescue services joint director S Vijayasekar said.

One worker has been rescued, he said adding ambulances, doctors and paramedical personnel were on the spot. Twelve fire tenders and 100 personnel are involved in the rescue work, he said.

The incident occurred as rains lashed the area and several other parts of the city on Saturday evening.

Asked if rains could also have been a factor in the collapse of the building, the official said “it does not seem to be because of the rains... we have to see to it.”

On the number of trapped workers, he said “it is not possible to categorically comment on it. Eyewitnesses say there were about 50 workers at the time of the collapse.”

Chief Minister Jayalalithaa said she had directed the police to initiate action against those responsible for the incident.