MUMBAI — At least 11 people, including eight children, have been killed after a residential building collapsed in the western Indian city of Mumbai.

Rescue efforts are underway as more people are feared trapped in the debris, officials say.

An investigation has been ordered but a minister said heavy rains could have caused the collapse on Wednesday night.

The incident took place around 11.15 p.m. on Wednesday at the New Collector Compound on Abdul Hamid Road in Malad's Malwani area.

The fire brigade arrived soon after the incident. With the help of local police and people, fifteen people trapped in the debris were rescued.

Three other buildings nearby are in "dangerous condition" and the residents have been evacuated, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation said.

The house belonged to Mohammad Rafiq, who lost nine members of his family. He had gone to fetch milk last night when the tragic incident happened. Only one of his sons survived apart from him.

Officials said they have evacuated other dilapidated buildings in the area as heavy rains are likely to continue in the coming days. The city has been put on high alert because the rains are also causing flooding in several areas.

Police said that 18 people were pulled from the debris but only seven of them survived. "Police will carry out a proper investigation and take further action," senior officer Dilip Sawant told local media. — Agencies