NEW DELHI: A quiet day in Kota turned tragic when a building under construction suddenly collapsed leaving families shocked and rescue teams racing against time. What began as routine construction work ended in loss, injuries, and urgent questions about safety.
Building collapse shocks Kota
A building collapse in Kota has claimed two lives and left at least 13 people injured. Officials confirmed this on Friday (Feb 6). The incident happened in the Indravihar area of the city, where a new structure was being built.
According to authorities, the building came down from top to bottom trapping people under the debris and triggering panic in the neighbourhood. Local residents rushed to spot even before emergency teams arrived trying to help in any way they could.
What officials say about the cause
Kota Divisional Commissioner Anil Kumar Agrawal said that the collapse took place at a construction site where work was still in progress. Early information suggests that the structure may have failed due to poor construction quality.
“There were reports that drilling work was going on. Some local residents had earlier complained about it,” Agrawal told reporters. He added that negligence cannot be ruled out at this stage.
However, officials stressed that the exact reason for the collapse will only be known after a detailed technical investigation. “We will conduct a proper inquiry and share the findings once it is complete,” Agrawal said.
Rescue operations continue at the site
Rescue efforts began immediately after the collapse and are still ongoing. Kota District Collector Piyush Samariya said multiple emergency teams are working together at the site.
Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire Department are clearing debris to ensure that no one remains trapped. Heavy machinery is being used. But officials say work is slow and cautious to avoid further harm.
Ambulances have been stationed nearby. Injured people were rushed to hospitals for treatment.
Om Birla expresses grief and support
Lok Sabha Speaker and Kota MP Om Birla expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Calling it “extremely heartbreaking,” he said he is in constant touch with the district administration.
Birla said he has instructed senior officials, including the District Collector, to speed up rescue and relief work. He also directed authorities to make sure that all injured people receive timely and proper medical care.
In a post on social media platform X, Birla prayed for the quick recovery of the injured and expressed solidarity with the families who lost their loved ones. He said he hoped they would find strength during this painful time. - The Statesman/ANN
