Tragedy Strikes Varanasi: Woman Dies in House Collapse Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple

A 43-year-old woman lost her life and nine others were injured when two old houses collapsed near the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. The incident, which also injured a woman police constable, prompted a swift rescue operation. Prime Minister Modi was informed and extended condolences and support.

A 43-year-old woman was killed and nine people, including a woman police constable, were injured after two old houses near the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi collapsed early on Tuesday, officials reported.

Divisional Commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the local MP, was immediately updated on the situation.

'Two houses collapsed. One belonged to Mr. Gupta, housing nine people, while the other belonged to Mr. Yadav. While the second house's occupants exited safely, seven individuals from the first house had to be rescued from the debris,' Sharma disclosed.

Of those rescued, one woman, Premlata Gupta, was declared dead at the hospital. A woman police constable also sustained injuries to her jaw, added Sharma.

The rescue operation has been completed, and efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and restore essential services like water and electricity.

Sharma explained that the second and third floors of the houses, which were about 70 years old, had collapsed. 'The gate of Yadav's house will be dismantled for debris removal,' he added. He also clarified that the temple administration has no authority over properties outside the temple's premises.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences to the deceased's family and instructed that the injured receive the best possible medical treatment free of charge.

(With inputs from agencies.)