Rescuers are searching for survivors in the rubble of a residential building which collapsed while under construction in southern India, killing at least 14 workers.

Authorities fear dozens may be trapped and have been trying to determine how many workers were on the site in Goa when the five-storey structure crumpled in the city of Canacona. Witnesses reported seeing at least 40 labourers on-site.

Soldiers and firefighters listened for movement or cries from the wreckage as they worked overnight to clear the debris. At least 10 people were pulled out alive overnight, but the chance of finding survivors is dwindling.

Goa's chief minister Manohar Parrikar has ordered a review of the construction project, after cracks were observed in an adjacent apartment constructed by the same company. Police are investigating both the building company and city officials who approved the project.