The death toll from the building collapse in Bengaluru’s Babusapalya area has climbed to five as rescue operations continue. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon during heavy rains in the city, with around 20 people believed to have been inside the under-construction building at the time of the collapse.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Bengaluru), D Devaraja, confirmed that five bodies have been recovered from the debris, while rescue teams are still searching for survivors. “Five people are injured, four of whom have been admitted to North Hospital, and one to Hosmat Hospital,” the DCP added. Thirteen individuals have been rescued so far.
Rescue operations remain underway, with specialized teams, including a dog squad, working tirelessly to locate anyone still trapped beneath the rubble. Two rescue vans from the fire and emergency department were dispatched to the site soon after the building collapsed.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar visited the site to review the ongoing rescue operations. Speaking to reporters, he confirmed that the building was illegal and vowed strict action against those responsible, including the building’s owner and the contractors involved. Shivakumar also announced a city-wide survey to identify and prevent the construction of illegal buildings. “All unauthorized structures will be targeted,” he said, adding that registrars would be instructed to halt transfers of properties that lack proper building plan approvals.
The collapse has highlighted growing concerns about illegal construction practices in Bengaluru, particularly in rapidly developing areas like Babusapalya. As rescue teams continue their efforts, officials are also focusing on providing aid to the affected families and ensuring the safety of nearby structures.