Delhi: 10 Lives Lost as Building Collapses in Mustafabad; CM Gupta Launches Inquiry
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Synopsis
A tragic building collapse in Mustafabad, east Delhi, resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals, including the owner. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered an investigation and promised accountability for those responsible. Ongoing rescue operations are underway, with fears of more people trapped beneath the wreckage.
Key Takeaways
- 10 fatalities confirmed in the building collapse.
- Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has mandated an investigation.
- Rescue operations are actively in progress.
- Authorities are focusing on locating potential survivors.
- Concerns regarding illegal buildings in Mustafabad raised.
New Delhi, April 19 (NationPress) A four-storey building crumbled in the early hours of Saturday in the Mustafabad region of east Delhi, resulting in the loss of 10 lives, including the building owner, and leaving several individuals trapped beneath the rubble, according to officials.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has initiated an inquiry and has assured that those responsible will face consequences.
The collapse took place around 3 a.m., following severe overnight rain and thunderstorms affecting various areas of the city. The 60-year-old owner, Tehsin, was also among the deceased, while 11 others were successfully rescued.
Sandeep Lamba, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (North East District), stated, "Four of the 14 individuals rescued have died due to their injuries... The structure was comprised of four floors. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with eight to ten individuals still believed to be trapped."
In a social media message on platform X, CM Gupta expressed her deep sorrow over the heartbreaking incident in Mustafabad.
She confirmed that an investigation has been launched regarding the event, and strict measures will be taken against the wrongdoers.
"Agencies including DDMA, NDRF, and DFS are actively engaged in rescue and relief efforts. Arrangements have been made to ensure that all injured receive proper medical care," she added.
In a briefing from the site, Mohan Shaheedi of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) reported, "There are fears that individuals are trapped beneath the debris, comprising nine adults and three children. So far, local sources indicate that six people have been rescued and transported to hospitals. Two NDRF teams are currently on site, aided by the Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, and local volunteers."
He continued, "Authorities are in the process of locating voids and potential spots underneath the rubble where survivors might be trapped. Technical searches are being executed with rescue dogs to detect any signs of life. Should any signs be discovered, we will focus our efforts on that area. This operation poses significant challenges and is being conducted with the highest level of care."
Teams from the NDRF, Delhi Police, Fire Services, and local volunteers are diligently working at the scene.
The area has been cordoned off as the rescue operation enters a critical stage. The precise cause of the collapse will be investigated once rescue efforts are completed. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Mohan Singh Bisht, Deputy Speaker of the Assembly and local legislator, stated, "I have urged the L-G and MCD Commissioner to take action against negligent officials."
"There are numerous illegal structures throughout Mustafabad, and this incident has highlighted corruption within the MCD and other departments, including power discoms," he remarked.
Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Atishi, also conveyed her sorrow over the incident, encouraging AAP members to assist the affected families.
Additionally, a party colleague and the Delhi Mayor announced that an investigation has commenced regarding the incident, and those culpable will face suspension shortly.
