Delhi: Four Lives Lost in Mustafabad Building Collapse; CM Initiates Investigation

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Four fatalities confirmed after building collapse.
- Ongoing rescue efforts by NDRF and local agencies.
- Investigation ordered by CM Rekha Gupta.
- Possible illegal construction issues highlighted.
- Community urged to support affected families.
New Delhi, April 19 (NationPress) At least four individuals have tragically lost their lives, while approximately a dozen remain trapped beneath the rubble following the collapse of a four-storey building in the Mustafabad neighborhood of east Delhi during the early hours of Saturday, as per officials. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has called for an investigation and assured that action will be taken against those responsible.
The disaster struck around 3 a.m. after severe overnight rainfall and thunderstorms affected multiple regions of the city.
Sandeep Lamba, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (North East District), reported, “Four out of the 14 individuals rescued have succumbed to their injuries... The building was four stories tall. Rescue operations are ongoing, with eight to ten individuals still believed to be trapped.”
In a social media message on platform X, CM Gupta expressed, “I am profoundly saddened by the heartbreaking incident of the building collapse in Mustafabad. An investigation has been launched and strict measures will be taken against the offenders,”
“The DDMA, NDRF, DFS, and various other agencies are actively engaged in relief and rescue efforts. Arrangements have been established for the appropriate treatment of all injured parties,” she stated.
In an update from the scene, NDRF official Mohan Shaheedi mentioned, “About 12 individuals are feared to be trapped under the rubble, comprising 9 adults and 3 children. Local sources indicate that 6 individuals have been rescued and transported to the hospital. Two teams from the NDRF are currently on-site, supported by Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, and volunteers.”
He added, “Authorities are identifying voids and potential spots beneath the rubble where survivors might be found. Technical searches are in progress using rescue dogs to detect any signs of life. If any indications are found, special attention is given to that area. The operation is highly challenging and is being executed with the utmost caution.”
Teams from the NDRF, Delhi Police, Fire Services, and local volunteers are continuing their relentless efforts at the scene.
The area has been cordoned off as the rescue operation enters a crucial phase. The precise cause of the collapse will be examined once the rescue operations conclude. Ongoing rescue efforts are in progress.
Deputy Speaker of Assembly and local legislator Mohan Singh Bisht stated, “I have urged the LG and MCD Commissioner to take action against negligent officials.”
There are illegal constructions throughout Mustafabad, and this incident has highlighted the corruption within the MCD and other departments such as power discoms, he remarked.
Leader of Opposition in Assembly, Atishi, also expressed sorrow over the incident, urging AAP members to assist the families affected by this tragedy.
Her party colleague, the Delhi Mayor, indicated that a probe has been initiated into the incident, and those guilty will face suspension soon.