Building collapses in Nairobi as several people are feared trapped under rubble

Hyderabad: A multi-storey building under construction collapsed on Friday in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area, a busy commercial neighbourhood in Kenya’s capital, with many people feared trapped under the debris. 

The building, which had more than 10 floors under construction, collapsed along a crowded commercial street frequented by thousands of traders and residents, Nairobi police chief Issa Mohamud said. 

Rescue efforts faced difficulties after police fired tear gas at people who had started looting nearby shops. Officers were trying to clear the area to allow emergency response teams to reach the site. 

The Kenya Red Cross said its teams were heading to the location and appealed to people gathered at the site to give responders enough space to carry out their work safely. 

Building collapses remain a recurring concern in Nairobi. County officials responsible for issuing building permits have faced allegations of failing to carry out adequate inspections to ensure developers adhere to safety guidelines and construction standards.  (with inputs from Associated Press)