In pictures: Bangladesh Dhaka building collapse
- Published
An eight-storey building has collapsed in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, killing dozens of people and injuring hundreds more, government officials say.
Rescue efforts are under way to help people trapped in the rubble. Many were working in a clothing factory in the building, which also contained a bank and several other shops.
People escaped by sliding down lengths of textile. Hundreds were injured by the collapse, which happened during the morning rush hour. Officials have warned that the death toll could rise.
Volunteer rescuers joined the efforts at the site of the collapse in Savar, on the outskirts of Dhaka. The Bangladeshi army used concrete cutters and cranes to help with the operation. Many people gathered near the scene looking for friends and relatives.
Garment workers told local media of their terror as the rear of the building suddenly started to fall down. Within a short time the whole structure - except the main pillar and parts of the front wall - had caved-in.
Building collapses are common in Bangladesh where many multi-storey blocks are built in violation of regulations. Police in Dhaka told Reuters that the building's owners had ignored a warning not to let workers inside after a crack was detected on Tuesday. It was not immediately clear what caused the collapse.
The collapse brings further attention to the safety standards of one of the world's largest garment industries. It comes after a fire at a garment factory in Dhaka in November killed at least 110 people and triggered a public outcry.
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