Mumbai, July 18, 2025 – A three-storey chawl building collapsed in Bharat Nagar, Bandra East, around 5:56 AM on Friday following a suspected cylinder blast, injuring seven people and trapping others under debris. The incident sparked a swift response from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, BMC, and city police, who launched an extensive rescue operation.

According to officials, a loud explosion was heard just before the second and third floors of Chawl No. 37 caved in. Rescue teams deployed fire engines, ambulances, rescue vans, and heavy-duty drilling equipment to search for survivors. Twelve people have been rescued so far, and the injured have been admitted to Bhabha Hospital.

Initial reports suggest that the structure may have had unauthorized modifications, and officials are investigating whether poor maintenance or illegal construction played a role in the collapse. Authorities from the BMC, MHADA, and PWD are overseeing structural inspections of surrounding buildings to ensure no further hazards remain.

Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani assured the public that a full probe will follow once rescue efforts are complete. Local residents have been advised to evacuate nearby buildings as a precaution, and a team of structural engineers has been dispatched to assess the area.

The Maharashtra government has promised assistance to the victims, and an official report will be released once the site is cleared and secured.

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