Greater Noida: Three dead after buildings collapse, many feared trapped
On Tuesday night, an under construction six-storey building fell on another four-storey one in Greater Noida's Shahberi village, killing three. The rescue operation is being carried on by four teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). One dog squad is also on the spot. The rescue team is looking for survivors. Here's more about this incident.
Locals allege rescue team took long to reach spot
Chief Fire Officer Arun Sharma reportedly said 12 workers were in the building when the incident happened, and all of them might have been trapped. Other reports said two people have been rescued by the team. Locals alleged the accident took place around 8:30 PM last night, but the rescue team reached over an hour later. A lookout notice was issued against the builder.
Meanwhile, the rescue team is facing problems
The team is facing problems. For example, the entire stretch is dug up due to the monsoon. The potholes are also water-logged. Heavy machinery, including drilling machines, is being used to clear debris to reach the survivors. Rotary saw having blades to cut concrete slabs and RCCs was also being used. They are also using hydraulic lifters and rescue radar to detect a heartbeat.
Watch: Team at work to rescue survivors
The horrific incident has left locals scarred
The incident has, obviously, raised concerns among locals. "I own a flat and I bought it for Rs. 29 lakh a year back...I don't know if my building is safe," an eyewitness said and added a safety audit should be done. Further, locals alleged Greater Noida West has a lot of small builders constructing high-rise buildings. Gautam Budh Nagar District Magistrate has ordered an investigation.