A tragic incident unfolded in Bengaluru on Wednesday evening after intense rainfall led to the collapse of a compound wall at Bowring Hospital in Shivajinagar, claiming the lives of at least seven people, including children. Several others are feared to be trapped under the debris, raising concerns that the death toll may increase.
According to eyewitnesses, the city witnessed heavy rain accompanied by strong winds, thunder, lightning, and hail for nearly an hour starting around 5 PM. As the downpour intensified, roadside vendors and pedestrians sought shelter near the hospital’s compound wall. Unfortunately, the structure gave way अचानक, burying those gathered nearby under the rubble.
Emergency responders rushed to the spot and began rescue operations immediately. Injured victims were shifted to the emergency ward, where at least three people are currently undergoing treatment. Authorities are continuing efforts to clear the debris and search for any survivors.
The tragic loss has left families devastated. Scenes of grief unfolded at the hospital as relatives mourned their loved ones, many of whom were breadwinners. Emotional outbursts and cries for help echoed through the premises, highlighting the human cost of the disaster.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the site to assess the situation and gather details from officials. Preliminary reports suggest that the wall collapsed due to pressure caused by continuous heavy rainfall. The Chief Minister questioned officials on how such a structural failure occurred and ordered a thorough investigation.
Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar also inspected the location and reviewed rescue operations.
Reacting to the incident, BJP MLC C.T. Ravi stated that initial reports indicated 8 to 10 casualties and warned that the toll could rise further. While refraining from blaming the government, he emphasized that authorities must step up and support the affected families during this difficult time.
