Rescue Operations Launched Immediately
Police, fire brigade teams, and disaster response units rushed to the site soon after receiving information about the collapse. Heavy machinery and manual tools were deployed to remove debris carefully, as officials warned that survivors could still be trapped inside.
Rajasthan minister Madan Dilawar termed the incident “very serious” and confirmed that two deaths had been reported so far. He said nine injured individuals were taken to Kota’s Medical College Hospital, out of which four remain under treatment. Others were either shifted to private facilities or discharged after first aid.
Officials confirmed that at least five people have been rescued alive from the rubble. Rescue teams are proceeding cautiously due to concerns that further structural instability could hamper operations.
Restaurant Was Functioning Inside Building
Preliminary information suggests that a restaurant was functioning inside the building, increasing footfall during evening hours. Both employees and customers were reportedly present when the structure gave way.
Local residents said they heard a loud crashing sound before the building collapsed completely within seconds. Panic gripped the area as dust clouds engulfed nearby streets, prompting locals to assist rescue teams before authorities cordoned off the site.
Administration Orders Probe Into Collapse
The state government has ordered an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse. Officials are examining whether structural violations, illegal modifications, or poor construction quality contributed to the incident.
“A detailed inquiry will be conducted. Responsibility will be fixed once the cause is established,” Dilawar said, adding that safety audits of nearby buildings may also be undertaken.
Local MLA Sandeep Sharma, who visited the site, said there was a strong possibility that more people were trapped under the debris. He assured residents that all available resources were being deployed to rescue survivors.
Urban Safety Concerns Raised Again
The Kota building collapse has once again raised concerns over urban safety and the enforcement of building norms in rapidly growing cities. Experts have long warned that unchecked commercial activity inside residential structures poses serious risks, especially in older buildings.
Residents in the Talwandi area have demanded accountability and stricter monitoring by civic authorities to prevent future incidents.
Relief and Monitoring Continue
Authorities said rescue operations will continue through the night until every possibility of survivors is exhausted. Medical teams remain on standby, while police have restricted movement around the area to ensure safety.
The Rajasthan government has assured that assistance will be provided to the families of the deceased after the rescue phase concludes. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
