A 16-unit residential flat in Gamharia collapsed but was fortunately vacant at the time, preventing any loss of life or injuries.

The incident took place at the Tayo Rolls Mill complex in Gamharia, Seraikela-Kharsawan district of Jharkhand, eastern India on January 27.

Visuals show the flat collapsing into debris while bystanders capture the moment.

According to reports, a flat in the E-block of the residential complex, a subsidiary of Tata Steel, began tilting backwards on Sunday evening, with the ground floor caving in hours later. Anticipating the danger, residents evacuated in time, ensuring no casualties.

The complex, which housed employees of Tayo Company before its closure, was declared uninhabitable by the company years ago. However, many families, unable to settle their dues with the company, continued to live in the deteriorating flats. Residents had long complained about the unsafe conditions, but no action was taken.

Tata Steel officials and police from the Gamharia station rushed to the site, with rescue and relief operations underway. The company’s emergency response team is assessing the situation and assisting in retrieving belongings from the debris.

Former residents expressed frustration over the delayed demolition of unsafe structures. “The company knew these flats were hazardous, but no steps were taken to prevent such incidents,” said a former employee who wished to remain anonymous.

Former MLA and BJP leader Arvind Singh criticized the company management, accusing them of negligence toward the safety of the flat occupants.

In an official statement, Tata Steel said, “Our emergency response team is at the site, assessing the situation.”