Mumbai: Four-storey building collapse in Dongri leaves 5 people dead, rescue operation on

Rescue operation is currently going on to pull out 40 people who are feared to be trapped under the rubble.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the focus of his government was currently to rescue the trapped people.

"Currently our prime focus is on rescue efforts. After going into all details I will announce inquiry," the Chief Minister said.

"Around 15 families were residing there," he said.

A toddler has been rescued from the rubble and was rushed to a hospital for treatment.

Rescue workers from the fire department, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police and civic body staff are working to save those trapped under the debris.

“Access is a very big challenge for us at this time. The lanes are narrow, so we cannot take any machinery inside. We are manually doing all work, clearing debris, cutting iron girders,” a senior officer of the Mumbai Fire Brigade told Hindustan Times.

“Since these are all old buildings that were renovated at some point, they have been supported with iron rods around the structure of the building. This is making rescue challenging and is very problematic for those stuck in the debris. If I could take a JCB inside, by now all debris would be cleared,” the officer added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the tragedy.

"Collapse of a building in Mumbai’s Dongri is anguishing. My condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover soon. Maharashtra Government, NDRF and local authorities are working on rescue operations & assisting those in need: PM @narendramodi," PMO India tweeted.