Tragedy in Mohali: One dead in building collapse, rescue teams race against time

A devastating building collapse in Sohana village, Mohali, Punjab, has claimed one life and left several individuals feared trapped under debris, prompting an extensive multi-agency rescue operation. The tragic incident occurred on December 21, 2024, in a six-storey structure housing a gym and other commercial spaces.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Army, and local police have been tirelessly working to recover those trapped under the rubble. Rescue teams deployed heavy machinery, including excavators, while floodlights illuminate the area to enable round-the-clock efforts. The collapse has not only led to the loss of life but has also raised significant questions about the safety of urban construction practices in the rapidly growing region of Mohali.

Excavation Work Blamed for Structural Failure

Preliminary investigations by local authorities have pointed to excavation work on an adjacent plot as the probable cause of the collapse. Experts suggest that basement construction on the adjoining land may have destabilised the foundation of the ill-fated building, triggering the catastrophic failure. Mohali Senior Superintendent of Police Deepak Pareek has confirmed that investigations are underway to determine whether negligence or lapses in construction standards played a role.

This incident has shone a spotlight on urban development and regulatory oversight, as rapid construction projects in areas like Sohana village are often under intense scrutiny.

Lives Lost and the Ongoing Search for Survivors

Drishti Verma, a 20-year-old resident from Himachal Pradesh, was pulled from the debris but succumbed to her injuries at a nearby hospital. Officials fear that at least five others remain trapped under the rubble. Efforts to locate and rescue survivors continue with urgency.

Rescue teams have faced significant challenges due to the unstable debris and the narrow windows of opportunity to locate survivors. One official stated that the priority remains saving lives while minimising further risks to rescuers and trapped individuals.

Chief Minister Assures Accountability

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed his condolences and reassured the public that stringent measures would be taken against those responsible. He stated that construction safety violations, if found, would be met with severe consequences. The Chief Minister also emphasised the need for stricter regulations to prevent future tragedies.

His remarks reflect a growing concern about accountability in the construction sector. Experts have repeatedly highlighted the importance of pre-construction soil assessments and adherence to structural safety codes, both of which are critical for mitigating such disasters.

A Community in Mourning

Residents of the area have described the collapse as sudden and terrifying. Eyewitness accounts reveal that the incident occurred without warning, leaving occupants little time to react. Many locals have gathered at the site to offer support to the affected families, while others have called for immediate reforms in urban planning and construction standards.

The collapse has triggered widespread anxiety in Sohana village, as questions arise about the structural safety of neighbouring buildings. Residents are now demanding that authorities inspect similar structures in the vicinity to ensure their stability.

Experts Call for Stricter Regulations

Urban safety experts have pointed out that while regulations governing construction practices exist, enforcement often remains inconsistent. They argue that regular inspections, particularly in high-growth regions like Mohali, are vital to ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

The incident also highlights the potential dangers of unplanned urbanisation, where the rush to develop often overlooks critical safety considerations. Experts suggest that lessons from this tragedy must prompt a comprehensive review of construction standards across Punjab.

A Call for Accountability and Reform

The Mohali building collapse serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of negligence in construction practices. As rescue teams continue their search for survivors, the focus will soon shift to identifying those accountable and implementing reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

For the affected families and the local community, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for regulatory vigilance and a renewed commitment to urban safety.