Post by : Raman

SINGAPORE – A sudden ceiling collapse at Liat Towers in the busy Orchard Road shopping district left three people injured on Friday, September 12, 2025. The incident occurred in the afternoon, causing panic among shoppers and passersby.

According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), they received a call for assistance around 4 pm. Two victims were taken to Singapore General Hospital, while a third was transported to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, though the hospital authorities have not released further details.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud thud as the ceiling gave way. Ms. Czandrya Cheong, who was seated by a window in a cafe inside Liat Towers, described the moment as frightening. “We all heard a really loud thud and looked outside. There was shattered glass everywhere,” she said. She and her friends quickly rushed outside to help those trapped under the fallen ceiling.

Police and SCDF personnel arrived at the scene within minutes. By 6 pm, the area outside the Starbucks outlet near street level was cordoned off to ensure public safety. Observers noted that a false ceiling under the outdoor steps had completely dislodged and was lying on the ground. Approximately five police officers were stationed at the scene to control the crowd and investigate the situation.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the ceiling collapse. Structural engineers have been called in to assess the building and determine whether maintenance issues or other factors contributed to the accident. Liat Towers management has not released an official statement at the time of reporting.

The incident highlights the importance of regular building inspections, particularly in high-traffic areas like Orchard Road, where malls and offices see thousands of visitors daily. While such incidents are rare in Singapore, experts note that timely maintenance and safety audits are crucial to prevent accidents that could endanger lives.

Despite the chaos, bystanders praised the quick thinking and assistance from nearby shoppers, who helped prevent further injuries. Ms. Cheong’s account shows how ordinary people acted fast to ensure the safety of those trapped under the fallen ceiling.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area until investigations are complete. They also advised nearby businesses and pedestrians to stay alert for any potential hazards as building inspectors continue their assessment.

This accident serves as a reminder of the potential risks in urban environments and the importance of safety measures in commercial buildings. Officials are expected to release a full report on the cause of the ceiling collapse in the coming days.

For now, emergency services continue to monitor the situation, while hospitals provide care for those affected. The prompt response by SCDF, police, and civilians likely prevented the situation from becoming far more serious.

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