Birthday Party Turns Into Tragedy – 16 Dead in Virar Building Collapse

A devastating incident shook Maharashtra’s Palghar district late Wednesday night. The rear portion of Ramabai Apartment in Virar East suddenly collapsed, bringing down a small chawl located right behind it. The mishap occurred around 12:05 a.m., when most residents were fast asleep. According to the latest updates from the NDRF, 14 people have been confirmed dead so far, including women and children, while several others are injured. The heart-wrenching tragedy has thrown the entire area into chaos, leaving families shattered and in tears.

NDRF’s Rescue Operation in Full Swing, Few More Feared Trapped

Considering the severity of the situation, two NDRF teams, the fire brigade, and local police rushed to the spot immediately. A massive rescue operation is underway to pull people out from under the debris. So far, 17 people have been rescued, but tragically 14 have lost their lives. Authorities fear that few more people may still be trapped. Heavy machinery, gas cutters, and dog squads are being used to speed up the rescue work. To ensure smooth operations, electricity and gas supply in the surrounding areas have been temporarily cut off.

Birthday Celebration Turns Into Mourning

On the fourth floor of the same Ramabai Apartment, a child’s first birthday was being celebrated when the tragedy struck. Balloons, cake, and laughter had filled the air just moments before the building’s rear section crumbled without warning. No one imagined that a celebration of life would turn into a night of grief. Reports suggest that the death toll could have been lower had there not been a birthday gathering in the building at the time.