4-storey lodge collapses in Kotma, 2 dead:Several feared trapped; 100 personnel engaged in rescue operation

A four-storey lodge near the Kotma bus stand in Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh collapsed suddenly on Saturday evening, raising fears that several labourers and others may be trapped under the debris. The incident also caused damage to nearby shops. To note, 2 people have died after the building collapse. According to initial reports, the collapse occurred around 5:30 PM. Police and local administration teams rushed to the spot soon after receiving information. Rescue operations are currently underway, but the exact number of people trapped beneath the rubble is yet to be confirmed. See 5 pictures related to the incident Several people staying in lodge at time of collapse Several people were staying in the lodge at the time of the incident. Anuppur SP Moti Ur Rehman said the building was around 10 years old, and construction work was underway next to it. The lodge collapsed suddenly, trapping those inside along with labourers working nearby. A rescue team has been called from SECL Jamuna and Kotma. The team will begin clearing debris and pulling out those trapped. The exact number of people buried under the rubble is still unknown. The SP has left for the spot. Over 100 personnel engaged in rescue operation Kotma TI Ratnambar Shukla said excavation work was underway in a house adjacent to the lodge when the incident occurred. The ongoing underground digging is suspected to have triggered the collapse. More than 100 personnel are currently involved in the rescue operation. Authorities fear that 7–8 people may still be trapped under the debris. So far, one woman has been rescued.