Mumbai Landslide: Two Dead, Several Feared Trapped in Kurla Chawl
At least two people died and several others were feared trapped after a landslide hit a residential chawl in Mumbai's Kurla area in the early hours of Wednesday. The incident occurred at around 3:48 a.m. at Gaushiya Chawl in Chirag Nagar, near Rathod Medical in Kurla West, according to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The BMC classified the event as a Level II incident, which requires a coordinated response from multiple agencies. Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and 50 officers from the BMC's disaster management cell were immediately deployed. Fire brigade and ambulance services also reached the location.
The victims were identified as Sohel Ansari (18) and Mohamad Ansari (14). Both were rushed to Rajawadi Hospital. The hospital's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Vishal, confirmed that Mohamad was declared brought dead. Sohel, who sustained severe head injuries, was admitted for treatment. Officials said the casualty count could change as rescue operations progressed.
A BMC official told reporters, "As per witnesses, six to eight persons were trapped under the debris." The official said that debris from the landslide fell on nearby rooms of the chawl structure.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawade arrived at the spot early in the morning to monitor the rescue operation. She reviewed the situation and directed officials to expedite relief work. Senior officials and municipal staff are coordinating with the rescue teams.
Rescue teams have been working continuously to clear the debris. NDRF personnel are using specialized tools to carefully remove the rubble without harming any trapped individuals. Medical teams are stationed at the site, and ambulances are on standby.
Local residents gathered near the spot, some helping rescue teams by identifying the families living in the affected portion of the chawl. The area has been cordoned off for safety and to facilitate the rescue effort.
The incident has drawn attention to the vulnerability of old chawl structures in Mumbai during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall over the past few days has increased risks in landslide-prone areas. The BMC has previously warned residents about such dangers, but many families have little choice but to remain in these structures due to housing shortages.
Weather officials have forecast more rain in the coming days, which could complicate the rescue and relief operations. Local authorities are keeping the situation under close watch.
An inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the landslide and to assess any possible violations of building safety norms. The BMC has assured assistance to the affected families, with details expected after the rescue operation concludes.
Further updates are awaited as the search for those trapped continues.
