Portion of dilapidated building collapses in Shahibaug; 16 rescued by fire personnel

A portion of a dilapidated three-storey residential structure in Dharmi Society, located near Modini Chali and Mahakali Mandir in Dudheshwar area of Shahibaug, collapsed on Tuesday, prompting a rapid and efficient rescue response from the Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services (AFES).

The building, classified as G+3 with a tin shed on the third floor, had visible cracks and structural vulnerabilities. The incident occurred when part of the terrace and stairway gave way, damaging portions of the second-floor lobby. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as the fire brigade swiftly evacuated the residents.

According to fire officials from the Shahpur fire station, eight individuals were initially rescued, and efforts were underway to evacuate the remaining five, who were subsequently brought to safety in a well-coordinated operation.

The list of individuals safely rescued includes—

1. Kajalben Suthar (23)

2. Memon Shabnam Banu (36)

3. Zaitun Bibi Memon (70)

4. Ashokbhai Verma (45)

5. Hardikbhai Verma (23)

6. Khushi Verma (20)

7. Rinki Verma (41)

8. Rehan Akbar Mowar (22)

9. Farhan Akbar Mowar (7)

10. Sakina Akbar Mowar (30)

11. Memon Mohammad Zaid (16)

12. Muskan Banu Shaikh (25)

13. Sanabanu Shaikh (17)

14. Sama Banu Mustaqim Shaikh (22)

15. Mustaqim Shaikh (25)

16. Mohammad Ayaan (9 months)

The Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Service department team prompt response ensured that all residents were rescued without injury. Officials stated that the building had been in a structurally fragile condition for some time, and local authorities had previously been notified of its unsafe status.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation is expected to begin structural inspection and potential demolition of the remaining parts of the building to prevent further risk.

Authorities have urged citizens living in similar old structures to report visible signs of damage to local ward offices, especially with the monsoon approaching.