Dongri residents play key role in rescue operations
he locals threw open empty halls as shelter for the victims of the collapse who were rendered homeless.
Mumbai: After the Kesarbai building came crashing down Tuesday, residents of nearby buildings were the first to try and remove the victims trapped under the debris. They also provided food and water to all present at the spot, especially firemen and the police involved in rescue operations. The locals threw open empty halls as shelter for the victims of the collapse who were rendered homeless.
Deputy municipal commissioner Harshad Kale said, “The locals played a major role not only in the rescue operation but also in easing the situation. The firemen and BMC staff were concentrating on the quick removal of debris to rescue trapped people but the locals were of great help. Although the BMC has provided a municipal school as temporary accommodation for the homeless victims, the locals too arranged shelter.”
Nadeem Shaikh, a Dongri resident, said, “I stay just two buildings away from the spot. The fire brigade reached in 10 minutes but till then, we rescued two people.”
He added, “The first deceased Abdul Sattar Shaikh’s son was fortunately on top of the debris and we helped him jump down. We removed whatever materials possible from the debris and also rescued a woman who is in hospital now.”
“The rescue operation was getting delayed due to a small lane. A person then arranged for a small JCB. Many people brought water bottles, food etc. at regular intervals,” he said.
Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT), which is redeveloping 250 dilapidated buildings in south Mumbai, said citizens should take responsibility of their lives and support redevelopment wherever needed.