The death toll in the Satya Niketan building collapse in Delhi has risen to six as rescue teams continued searching through heavy debris for anyone who may still be trapped.
Rescue teams continue search through debris
The building collapsed on Sunday afternoon in the student-dominated Satya Niketan area near Delhi University’s South Campus.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police and other agencies remained engaged in rescue operations. One more body was recovered during late-night operations, taking the number of fatalities to six.
The incident has raised concerns over the safety of buildings used as paying guest (PG) accommodation and the enforcement of construction and fire safety norms in densely populated areas of the national capital.
Government orders inquiry and FIR
The Delhi government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the collapse and directed that an FIR be registered against the building owner, according to the Chief Minister’s Office.
The government said those found responsible would be held accountable and face strict action under the law.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) ordered the immediate sealing of illegal constructions with more than four floors. It also warned of strict action against officials found responsible, including dismissal.
Questions raised over unsafe buildings
Former Delhi chief secretary Omesh Saigal said the incident should not be treated as an isolated case and raised concerns over unauthorised construction in several parts of the city.
Congress leader Kumari Selja also questioned the safety of students living in PG accommodations, while NSUI president Vinod Jakhar criticised the response to the tragedy and demanded accountability.
Delhi Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha president Rajat Choudhary, meanwhile, appealed for speedy rescue operations and urged political parties not to politicise the incident, calling for support to affected families and rescue teams.