What Caused the Delhi Building Collapse? Residents Reported Problems Earlier

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Building Collapse: A three-storey building in Janata Mazdoor Colony collapsed, trapping residents.
- Rescue Operations: Ongoing efforts by Delhi Police, Fire Service, and NDRF to save trapped individuals.
- Community Concerns: Residents had previously reported issues with the building's structure.
- Investigation Initiated: Authorities are probing the collapse and assessing nearby buildings for safety.
- Impact of Weather: Heavy rains and structural fatigue may have contributed to the incident.
New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) - In a heartbreaking incident, a building collapse occurred early Saturday morning in the Janata Mazdoor Colony, situated in the Welcome Police Station area of North-East Delhi. According to Additional DCP Sandeep Lama, the structure was a three-storey building, and members of a local family were trapped inside. A local resident noted that there had been some prior concerns regarding the building's condition.
"Around 7:15 A.M., a building in Gali No. 5, Welcome area, fell down. The Matroop family was among those inside. So far, a few people have been rescued, and rescue operations continue," stated Sandeep Lama.
A resident vividly described the chaos during the collapse, saying, "At about 6:45 A.M., the lights went out unexpectedly. Looking out, I saw the building come down. Police quickly arrived, and three individuals have been rescued thus far. The lane is too narrow for access from the other side."
Another resident expressed their shock and anxiety, saying, "I was seated when the building suddenly fell. Many had noticed issues beforehand. I hurriedly gathered the children, feeling immense pain and confusion."
The incident, which occurred around 7 A.M., sent shockwaves through the densely populated neighborhood, leading to multiple residents being trapped beneath the debris. While three individuals have been saved, there are fears that approximately a dozen people remain buried.
Rescue efforts are currently being conducted by the Delhi Police, the Delhi Fire Service, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). At least seven fire tenders are on-site, but the narrow streets and crowded environment have complicated rescue operations.
The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been confirmed. Preliminary reports indicate that the building was old and structurally unsound. Following heavy monsoon rains in Delhi, authorities suspect that water seepage and structural fatigue could be contributing factors.
The local administration has ordered an investigation and commenced a structural survey of surrounding buildings to evaluate their safety.