Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the collapse of a residential building in Palghar district of Maharashtra, which has claimed 15 lives so far.
In a message on X, the Prime Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. He assured that all possible assistance is being extended to the victims.
“Deeply saddened by the mishap due to the collapse of a building in Palghar, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families in this difficult hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected,” the Prime Minister said.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed concern, noting that a structural audit notice had been issued earlier to the building. He said strict action is needed since residents had refused to vacate despite warnings. The Chief Minister announced a probe into the incident and assured necessary measures for safety.
Officials confirmed that the four-storey Ramabai Apartment in Virar East collapsed around midnight on Tuesday, trapping residents in the debris.
The Vasai Virar police have arrested the builder of the collapsed structure, identified as Niley Sane, 50. He has been booked under provisions of the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning (MRTP) Act and Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Emergency services, including NDRF, fire brigade and police, are engaged in rescue operations. Authorities have evacuated residents from nearby buildings as a precautionary measure.
-ANI