Varanasi: On Tuesday morning, a tragic incident occurred near the historic Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi when two dilapidated houses collapsed. This devastating event led to the death of one woman and the successful rescue of five individuals, according to officials.

The incident took place in the Khoya Gali Chowk area, a locality known for its age-old structures. The two collapsed houses, which were reported to be over 70 years old, came crashing down unexpectedly. The collapse trapped a total of eight people under the debris, prompting an immediate emergency response.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was swiftly deployed to the site. Their team worked diligently to pull five people from the wreckage. These individuals were subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The extent of their injuries is yet to be fully determined, but their survival marks a significant success amid the chaos.

According to Kaushal Raj Sharma, the Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, the operation to rescue those still trapped continues. Despite the successful extraction of five individuals, the authorities fear that some people may still be trapped beneath the rubble. Rescue teams are working around the clock to locate and assist them.

The collapse has not only led to a tragic loss of life but has also raised concerns about the stability of old buildings in the area. The structures in question had been standing for decades, and their deterioration might have contributed to the sudden collapse. Local officials are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the incident and assess the safety of similar buildings in the vicinity.

As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on finding and rescuing anyone else who may still be trapped. The situation is evolving, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.