Mumbai: 19 dead, many trapped after 5-storey building collapses in Bhendi Bazaar

New Delhi: A five-storey residential building in Mumbai 's Bhendi Bazaar, Maulani Shaukat Ali Road collapsed on Thursday morning, leaving 19 dead. Many people are still feared trapped under the debris. 

A National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team, 10 fire brigades and ambulances have reached the spot. 

The incident took place at around 8:30 am near JJ Junction in Pakmodia street. 11 people have been pulled out of the debris so far.

Meanwhile, fire broke out at the site which was, however, doused engaging fire brigade personnel.

According to reports, the building, over 70-years-old, was in a dilapidated state. At least 10 families lived in it.

The upper two storeys of the ground plus two storey building were constructed illegally.

The rescue operation is underway. DCP Zone 1 Dr Manoj Sharma said, "Number of trapped people not confirmed."

A play school used to function inside the premises of the collapsed Husainia building. Had the incident happened an hour later, it would have put the lives of several toddlers in danger.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the kin of those who died in the unforeseen incident.

On August 26, a six-storey building at Sakinaka suburban in Mumbai collapsed during demolition, leaving one dead and two injured.

The city has been reeling under heavy rains for the last two days. As many as 14 people, including two toddlers, died on Thursday after floods hit the city following heavy monsoon rains.

As many as 791 buildings have been identified as the 'most dangerous' in its pre-monsoon survey.