Delhi Building Collapse: 3 Dead, Rescue Underway

A five-storey building housing a boys' hostel in Satya Niketan, near Delhi University's South Campus, collapsed on Sunday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of three students. The building, which is around 50 years old, was located in a congested bylane and was home to students from various parts of the country, including Kerala, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi spoke to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta about the incident, expressing his sadness and concern for those trapped. Joshi stated that Gupta assured him that all necessary rescue and relief measures are being undertaken expeditiously. The minister also prayed for the safety of those trapped and wished a speedy recovery for those injured.

According to police, eight people have been pulled out of the debris so far, with one being brought dead to the hospital and another dying during treatment. Five people are in critical condition, and one rescuer who received injuries was discharged. The rescue efforts are ongoing, with teams working to save those still trapped in the rubble.

The students who were staying in the building were mainly from Motilal Nehru College, Atma Ram Sanatan Dharm College, and Sri Venkateswara College. Locals reported that the area is heavily populated with students from various parts of the country. The cause of the building collapse is not yet known, but an investigation is likely to be launched.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of buildings in the area, particularly those that are old and may not be well-maintained. The Delhi government has faced criticism in the past for its handling of building safety and collapse incidents.

The rescue efforts are being closely monitored by the Delhi government, with the chief minister personally overseeing the operations. The government has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of those trapped and to provide assistance to the affected families.

In a statement on social media, Joshi wrote, 'Deeply saddened by the news of the private building collapse in Satya Niketan, near Delhi University’s South Campus. I have spoken to Delhi Chief Minister Smt. @gupta_rekha ji, who is personally monitoring and has assured me that all necessary rescue and relief measures are being undertaken expeditiously.'

The incident is a tragic reminder of the importance of ensuring building safety and maintaining old structures. The Delhi government and other authorities must take steps to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The collapse of the building has also raised questions about the regulation of buildings in the area and the enforcement of safety norms. The government must take a closer look at the regulations and ensure that they are being followed to prevent such incidents.

In conclusion, the building collapse in Satya Niketan is a tragic incident that has resulted in the loss of lives and injuries to many. The rescue efforts are ongoing, and the government has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of those trapped. The incident highlights the importance of ensuring building safety and maintaining old structures, and the government must take steps to prevent such incidents in the future.