A major incident unfolded near the Phulewadi Fire Station in Kolhapur late at night. A portion of a building’s slab collapsed, potentially trapping numerous workers. Sadly, Navnath Annappa Kagalkar, a 38-year-old resident of Shahunagar, Vadwadi, was killed in the collapse.
Those injured in the incident include Akshay Piraji Lad (30, resident of Shiv Shakti Colony, Gangai Lawn), Dattatraya Subhash Shembde (37), Jaya Subhash Shembde (56, resident of Sambhajinagar), Vanita Bapu Gaikwad (40, resident of Sambhajinagar), and Suman Sada Waghmare (60, resident of Sambhajinagar).
Rescue operations are currently in progress at the site. The fire brigade, disaster management units, the police, and medical teams are all actively involved. However, rain and darkness are impeding the rescue efforts.
Former MLA Ruturaj Patil and former corporator Rahul Mane have taken part in the rescue operations. Superintendent of Police Yogesh Kumar Gupta and Municipal Commissioner K. Manjulakshmi are also on the scene.
The situation in the area is tense, and a significant crowd has gathered at the location. The administration has requested that citizens maintain order and avoid interfering with the rescue work.
While one fatality has been confirmed, there are fears that more individuals may be trapped beneath the rubble. The darkness and rain are creating additional challenges for the rescue teams.
The cause of the slab collapse remains unknown, and no official statements have been made. A crowd has gathered, and members of the media are present. Authorities are expected to release a statement explaining the cause once the rescue efforts are concluded.