Eight bodies have been recovered by rescue teams so far, while several others are feared trapped under the debris.

Rescue operation underway

Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Bhiwandi Fire Brigade are at the site and are carrying out an intensive rescue operation to locate and evacuate those trapped.

The rescue operation is still underway.

Building had been declared dangerous

According to reports, the Bhiwandi Nizampur Municipal Corporation (BNMC) had earlier declared the building as dangerous.

Despite the warning, repair work was reportedly being carried out at the structure which is located at Balaji Nagar, Gangaram Wada, Bhiwandi.

Residents heard cracking sounds

Initial reports said residents heard loud crackling sounds between 8 pm and 9 pm, prompting concern.

Local residents helped evacuate several occupants before a portion of the building collapsed between 11 pm and 11:30 pm.

Cause yet to be determined

The exact cause of the building collapse is yet to be ascertained. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident once the rescue operation is completed.