4 dead in Mustafabad building collapse; enquiry ordered

New Delhi

At least four people were killed, and around a dozen others were trapped when a four-storey building collapsed in Mustafabad, East Delhi, early Saturday morning, following heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The incident occurred around 3 a.m., with intense weather conditions contributing to the collapse.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and ordered an investigation into the incident, assuring that strict action would be taken against those responsible. She confirmed that agencies such as DDMA, NDRF, and Delhi Fire Services are actively involved in rescue efforts.

Sandeep Lamba, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, stated that four of the 14 people rescued succumbed to their injuries, and 8-10 people are still feared trapped under the rubble. NDRF official Mohan Shaheedi reported that 12 people, including 9 adults and 3 children, remain trapped. So far, six people have been rescued and sent to the hospital.

Rescue teams, along with rescue dogs, are searching the debris carefully to locate any survivors. The operation is challenging, with technical searches underway to ensure no one is left behind. The area has been sealed off as efforts continue, and the exact cause of the collapse will be determined after the rescue operations.

Local leaders, including Mohan Singh Bisht and Atishi, have called for action against negligent officials and corruption within the MCD and other departments. The Delhi Mayor assured that a probe is underway, and guilty officials will be suspended.