Rescue – Moshi Building Collapse Search Continues as Rain Disrupts Maharashtra

Rescue – Search teams continued their efforts for a second day on Thursday after a building at a waste-to-energy facility in Moshi, Pune, was buried when a large heap of garbage collapsed during heavy rain. Emergency workers were searching through debris and waste to find people who may still be trapped. Officials said nine people had been brought out alive, while six or seven others were feared to remain under the rubble.

Multiple agencies deployed at the site

The operation has involved teams from the National Disaster Response Force, the Army, Pune Fire Brigade, police and local authorities. Rescue personnel have been working continuously since Wednesday afternoon, with equipment being used to examine the unstable debris and remove waste carefully.

Pune Deputy Commissioner of Police Ganesh Ingale said responders were facing difficult conditions because of the size of the garbage pile. He said authorities had initially received information that around 16 or 17 people could have been affected. Nine people have since been rescued, while the search for the remaining individuals is continuing.

Garbage mound complicates recovery work

Officials said the collapse took place after a large mound of waste near a three-storey administrative building gave way. The incident occurred at the Municipal Corporation’s waste-to-energy plant in Moshi, where persistent rainfall had weakened the waste heap over several days.

The volume of garbage mixed with building material has slowed the rescue process. Teams are proceeding cautiously to avoid further movement in the debris while trying to reach areas where people may be trapped. Authorities have not released further details about the condition of those rescued.

NDRF teams conduct specialised search operations

The fifth battalion of the NDRF in Pune said it had launched Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue operations at the location. The work is being carried out under the direction of Commandant S. B. Singh, while Assistant Commandant Pravin Dhat is supervising the operation at the site.

NDRF personnel continued through the night with technical search tools and specialised rescue equipment. By 6:30 am on Thursday, the force confirmed that nine people had been pulled out alive. Information from local residents indicated that a small number of people could still be beneath the collapsed material.

The NDRF said it was coordinating closely with civic officials and other emergency services. Teams remain focused on locating and evacuating anyone still trapped as safely and quickly as conditions allow. Further updates are expected as the search progresses.

Rail restoration continues on Mumbai-Pune route

Heavy rainfall also affected rail movement on the Mumbai-Pune corridor, where restoration work continued on Thursday. Central Railway said repairs were underway on the main lines after work on the middle line was completed earlier.

Chief Public Relations Officer Swapnil Nila said six of the nine affected work locations had been restored. Around 24 to 25 trains were being operated in both directions through the affected section using a single line. Railway officials said they were working to reopen the second line so that services between Mumbai and Pune could return to normal.

Nila added that suburban train operations in Mumbai were running smoothly and no disruption had been reported on those routes.

Mumbai authorities increase monsoon precautions

In Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation stepped up safety measures during the ongoing monsoon. Warning posters were installed in several areas to help people recognise trees that may pose a risk during strong winds and heavy rain.

At Marine Drive, high-tide waves were seen striking the promenade early Thursday. Authorities have advised residents to remain alert, particularly in low-lying areas and near the coastline, as rainfall continues in several parts of Maharashtra.