The death toll in the Satya Niketan building collapse in Delhi has risen to six, with search and rescue operations continuing at the site as teams sift through heavy debris for people who may still be trapped.
“One more person was rescued during the night but was brought dead, taking the toll to six,” Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Amit Goel said.
Eleven people have so far been rescued, while several others, mostly students, are feared trapped under the debris, officials said.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police, Delhi Disaster Management Authority and other agencies continued rescue operations through the night.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep distress over the building collapse and condoled the deaths, while praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister’s Office said, “The collapse of a building at Satya Niketan, Delhi is distressing. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are working at the site and assisting those affected in the mishap.”
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the collapse of the boys’ paying guest (PG) accommodation.
After inspecting the site, Gupta directed officials to conduct a detailed inquiry into the circumstances leading to the collapse and ordered the registration of an FIR against the building owner. She said those found responsible would face strict action under the law.
“Those found responsible for this grave incident will be held fully accountable and dealt with under the strictest provisions of law,” Gupta said after reviewing the situation at the site.
Police said an FIR has been registered at South Campus police station against the alleged owner, Hariram, and others.
The building, estimated to be 40-50 years old, had a basement and five upper floors and was being used as paying-guest accommodation for students, many of whom were studying at Delhi University’s South Campus. The premises had rooms to accommodate around 40 people, police said.
The collapse occurred around 1.30 pm while repair work was reportedly underway in the basement. Officials also indicated that heavy rains may have contributed to the incident.
(With inputs from agencies)
