A portion of the unauthorized four-storey Ramabai Apartment collapsed early on August 27, 2025, in Virar East, Palghar district, killing at least 15 individuals and injuring many. The builder has been arrested amid rescue and relief operations. Learn more on the impact, causes, and ongoing investigations.

Tragedy in Virar: Building Collapse Claims at Least Fifteen Lives, Builder Arrested

Tragedy in Virar – Building Collapse Claims at Least Fifteen Lives

In the early hours of Wednesday, August 27, 2025, a catastrophic event unfolded in Virar East, part of Maharashtra’s Palghar district, when the rear section of the unauthorized, four-storey Ramabai Apartment suddenly collapsed onto an adjoining vacant chawl. The devastating incident occurred at approximately 12:05 a.m., leaving at least 15 people dead and multiple others injured and feared trapped.

The collapse happened during the birthday party of a one-year-old girl on the fourth floor—turning a moment of joy into a scene of horror. As of now, rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency teams including the NDRF, local fire brigade, and police working around the clock to locate survivors and clear debris.

Victims Identified, Community in Shock

Local officials have confirmed that among the deceased were a 24-year-old mother, Aarohi Omkar Jovil, and her infant daughter, Utkarsha Jovil. Other confirmed victims include: Laxman Kisku Singh (26), Dinesh Prakash Sapkal (43), Supriya Nivalkar (38), Arnav Nivalkar (11), and Parvati Sapkal.

Beyond the confirmed 15 fatalities, several individuals remain injured and are receiving treatment at hospitals across Virar and Nalasopara, while rescuers continue to search for survivors in the rubble.

Authorization, Safety Issues, and Legal Action

Constructed in 2012, Ramabai Apartment comprised around 50 flats, with approximately 12 located in the collapsed rear section. The building had previously been declared illegal by the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC)—yet no corrective action had been taken before the tragedy struck.

Authorities have arrested the builder—identified as Niley Sane (age 50)—under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and multiple provisions of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act. This development shines a spotlight on the larger issues of building safety, regulatory enforcement, and unchecked urban development in rapidly expanding areas.

Rescue Operations and Support for Affected Families

Since the collapse, rescue teams—including two NDRF units from Mumbai and Palghar—have been tirelessly working to extract victims from the debris. Initially hindered by congestion and lack of heavy machinery, manual clearance gave way to mechanized efforts, accelerating the pace of operations.

Authorities evacuated neighboring chawls and moved residents to safety, offering temporary shelter at a nearby community temple where essentials like food, water, and medical care are being provided.

District Collector Dr. Indu Rani Jakhar and senior officials are overseeing rescue and relief activities, even as investigations get underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse and accountability.

The Bigger Picture – Urban Risks and Demand for Accountability

This collapse is a stark reminder of systemic failures in enforcement and governance. Despite being declared unsafe or illegal, buildings like Ramabai Apartment remain inhabited—putting lives at risk. In the bustling urban sprawl of Virar East, the lack of infrastructure and lax oversight exacerbate such hazards.

Public outcry is mounting, demanding swift action and stricter compliance with safety standards. Only rigorous zoning, regular audits, and prompt enforcement can deter future tragedies like this.

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