Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday praised coordinated efforts of various agencies in saving lives after the Taratala warehouse collapse, and stated that stricter monitoring of buildings and construction-related safety was being undertaken following the tragedy.
At least 16 people died, and 17 others were injured in the collapse of a warehouse under construction in Taratala area here on June 24.
He was speaking at a felicitation programme organised by the Kolkata Police to honour personnel involved in the rescue operation at the collapse site.
Adhikari praised the coordinated efforts of the various wings of the Kolkata Police, the Fire and Emergency Services department, the Railways, doctors and nurses, the Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), among others.
“We must ensure that such incidents do not happen again. Following the Taratala tragedy, a special audit of buildings and construction-related issues is underway, and we have already initiated a series of measures. Every department has been asked to remain vigilant,” the chief minister said.
He also emphasised the importance of coordination among various agencies during emergencies, noting that the rescue operation demonstrated how different organisations could work together to save lives.
“I salute all the rescuers. You worked in complete coordination and succeeded in saving 17 lives. I thank the Army and the NDRF for their support. This spirit of cooperation between all agencies must continue in the future because protecting every life is our collective responsibility,” Adhikari said.
The chief minister also acknowledged the role played by locals, who were among the first to respond after the collapse.
“The people of Taratala, especially the local youths, deserve special appreciation. They were the first to begin rescue efforts before the arrival of the emergency services. I will try to visit Taratala and personally thank them for their courage and selfless efforts,” he said.
The programme was attended by state minister Agnimitra Paul, Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal and senior officials of various departments.
The Bengal government had suspended construction work in the KMC area, along with Rajarhat-New Town, Maheshtala, Budge Budge, Bishnupur, Sonarpur and Baruipur municipal areas for four weeks except for emergency works, while all sanctioned building plans undergo an audit.
