Six dead as Delhi building collapses, several feared trapped

Six people were killed and several others were feared trapped after a five-storey building housing a boys’ paying guest accommodation collapsed in south-west Delhi’s Satya Niketan, as rescue teams searched the rubble on Monday, local media reported.

The collapse happened about 1:30 p.m. Sunday near Delhi University’s South Campus. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force, Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police and other agencies continued operations using heavy machinery and sniffer dogs. Officials say at least 11 people have been rescued.

The structure’s basement, popularly known as Hostel Daze, was under construction when it collapsed. Officials are looking into whether construction work and pooling water after heavy rain contributed to the disaster.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta directed the authorities to lodge a case against the owner of the building and ordered a magisterial enquiry. Police said they were still unsure of exactly how many were still trapped or injured.

Narrow, congested lanes in the heavily populated student neighbourhood complicated rescue operations. An eyewitness said calls were still coming through to people thought to be trapped under the debris. As rescue teams continue their search for survivors, authorities have cautioned locals and onlookers to remain clear of the area.