Emergency personnel are searching through heaps of rubble in India's capital following the sudden collapse of a multi-story residential building. Local authorities report that as many as fifty individuals, primarily students, may be trapped underneath the debris.
The incident took place on Sunday afternoon in the Satya Niketan district located in south-west Delhi. The structure functioned as a student hostel known as Hostel Daze and stood near the campus of Delhi University. Because the collapse occurred on a weekend, many residents were inside their rooms at the time.
Initial reports from law enforcement indicate that at least one person has died, while two others are receiving critical medical care. Emergency crews have successfully pulled six survivors from the wreckage thus far. Local officials noted that trapped students have managed to make phone calls from beneath the ruins to alert rescuers to their locations.
Preliminary investigations suggest that recent construction activities may have contributed to the disaster. Witnesses and local business owners stated that excavation work was underway in the building's basement. Observers claimed the alterations compromised the structural integrity of the lower pillars, despite reinforcement efforts on the upper floors.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the disaster site and confirmed that an adjacent structure was cleared of occupants as a safety precaution. Government authorities have pledged a comprehensive rescue operation to locate any remaining survivors. Police forces are currently searching for the owner of the property to question them regarding the incident.
Student organizations have strongly condemned the apparent disregard for safety regulations. Representatives are urging the administration to conduct a thorough inquiry and bring any negligent parties to justice. Rescue operations remain ongoing as specialized teams work through the night to clear the wreckage.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.
