Worker killed in Balaji Nagar building collapse

The body of construction worker from West Bengal was recovered after 5 hours of rescue operations

One person was killed and another injured in the collapse of a restaurant building in Balaji Nagar, Puzhuthivakkam, late Friday evening.

Police sources said they recovered the body of Masoom Sait (20), a construction worker from West Bengal, after five hours of rescue operations.

The body was sent to Chromepet GH for post-mortem, and the parents of the victim were informed.

Vimala, who lived on the first floor of the building, said she heard a loud noise and when she came out, she found herself standing on a mound of debris.

Blame game

On Friday evening, three vehicles of the fire brigade reached the spot and the administration called for four earthmovers to remove the debris. Residents, who gathered in large numbers, rescued a woman from under the debris before the arrival of rescue teams and police.

Residents alleged the building was constructed without proper certification. Sudhakar, a resident, alleged that recent stormwater drain construction activity near the wall of the 10-year-old building could have weakened its basement.

Chennai Corporation officials denied the allegation.

Police sources said they are on the lookout for the owner of the property and further investigation is on.