Building under construction collapses in Nairobi, with many feared trapped

A building under construction collapsed in Nairobi on Friday at about 1 p.m.

The collapse happened on a busy commercial street in Eastleigh, an area often crowded with traders and residents.

The building had more than 10 upper floors under construction, while its ground and basement floors were reportedly rented as shops.

Many people were feared trapped beneath the concrete, and residents said some loved ones called for help before their phones became unreachable.

Rescue teams faced a shortage of heavy equipment, and an excavator began moving steel-reinforced concrete so rescuers could reach lower floors.

Rescuers are searching the rubble, while police cleared the area to give emergency teams access.

Building collapses are a recurring problem in Nairobi, where county officials have faced accusations of inadequate safety inspections.