July 7, 2024 — The death toll from the collapse of a six-storey building in Surat has risen to seven, with many still feared trapped beneath the rubble. Rescue operations led by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been ongoing since the incident, continuing through the night and into Sunday morning.

The collapse occurred on Saturday, causing widespread panic and chaos in the surrounding area. Rajesh Parmar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 6), stated, One woman has been saved. Seven dead bodies have been recovered and sent for post-mortem to the hospital. The exact number of individuals still trapped remains uncertain. Rescue teams from the SDRF and NDRF have been tirelessly working to search for survivors and recover bodies from the debris. 

The first body retrieved was that of a young man, approximately 25 years old. A woman named Kashish Sharma, aged 23, was also rescued and promptly taken to New Civil Hospital, where she is currently in stable condition. Ongoing Efforts

Authorities are continuing to prioritize the rescue operations, employing heavy machinery and equipment to clear the rubble. The focus remains on locating and saving any remaining survivors. The community and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation as they await further updates.Community Response

The building collapse has shocked the local community, prompting an outpouring of support and solidarity. Emergency services are receiving assistance from local volunteers who are providing aid and comfort to those affected by the tragedy. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is expected to be launched once the rescue operations conclude. 

Officials have yet to provide any details on the potential reasons behind the incident. As rescue operations continue, the thoughts and prayers of the entire Surat community are with the victims and their families. Authorities are urging residents to stay clear of the collapse site to allow rescue teams to work without obstruction