Mumbai was struck by tragedy on Sunday evening when a multi-storey chawl in the Mankhurd area collapsed, leading to the loss of at least six lives and injuring one person. The incident took place around 8:30 PM at Chawl No. 5 located in Janta Nagar, behind Hanuman Mandir.

Emergency teams quickly mobilized to the site, launching rescue operations to search for survivors trapped under the rubble. As of now, the efforts are focused on locating any remaining individuals who may still be trapped, with local authorities urging bystanders to clear the area to allow for swift action.

The collapse coincided with heavy rainfall that lashed the city throughout the day, causing widespread disruptions. The downpour not only hampered rescue efforts but also led to flight delays at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for nearly an hour, alongside reports of roads becoming inundated and multiple tree falls across the metropolitan area.

Local residents expressed their shock and grief over the incident, highlighting concerns about the structural integrity of old buildings in Mumbai, especially during the monsoon season. One neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous, noted, “We have been worried about these old structures for years. This incident is a wake-up call for the authorities to take action.”

Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse and whether the heavy rainfall played a significant role. Preliminary reports suggest that the chawl may have been in a dilapidated state prior to the incident, raising questions about the maintenance of such buildings in densely populated areas.

The government has promised to provide assistance to the affected families and has committed to a thorough investigation into the building's condition. Officials have urged all residents of similarly aged structures to report any concerns they may have regarding safety.