New Delhi: Authorities have launched an investigation into the collapse of a four-storey building in south Delhi’s Saidulajab area near Saket Metro station, an incident that claimed six lives and left several others injured.
The building collapsed on Saturday evening, triggering a massive rescue operation involving the Delhi Police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and the fire department.
Rescue teams initially pulled six people from the debris and later evacuated several others, who were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. A special green corridor was created to ensure the swift transportation of the injured.
According to police, six people have been confirmed dead, while several others remain under treatment at various hospitals.
A case has been registered at Mehrauli police station under relevant provisions of law, and investigators have begun examining the circumstances that led to the collapse.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the site on Sunday and reviewed the ongoing rescue and relief operations. She warned of strict action against those responsible for constructing or maintaining unauthorised and unsafe buildings.
The Delhi government has ordered a magisterial inquiry headed by the district magistrate to determine the cause of the tragedy. Officials have also been directed to conduct inspections of vulnerable structures in the surrounding areas.
Eyewitnesses said the under-construction building collapsed onto a nearby tin-shed canteen, worsening the impact of the incident. The collapse, which occurred around 6 pm on Saturday, triggered panic among local residents and shopkeepers.
Authorities said efforts are underway to ascertain whether structural deficiencies, construction violations or other factors contributed to the disaster.
