Death Toll Rises to 9 in Kolkata Under-Construction Building Collapse

Kolkata: The death toll in the collapse of a five-storey under-construction building in a congested bylane in Garden Reach collapsed rose to nine.

At least 13 persons injured in the incident were admitted to hospital. Most of those killed or injured lived in adjoining shanties.

The Calcutta Municipal Corporation said the building that collapsed was being constructed illegally.

The builder of the building has been arrested and charged with murder and other offences under the Indian Penal Code. Kolkata police has started a case under the sections for murder, attempt to murder, negligent conduct in pulling down or repairing a building, mischief and common intention.

It is suspected that substandard materials were being used to construct the building.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the spot and instructed the administration to take strict action against the developer.