Dozens feared trapped in collapsed building in Delhi

A residential building in Delhi's Satya Niketan neighbourhood collapsed on Sunday, leaving dozens of students potentially trapped inside. Eyewitnesses reported that up to 50 individuals were inside the five-story structure when it came down around 1:30 PM local time (8:00 AM GMT). At least one fatality has been reported, with two others in critical condition, according to NDTV.

Six people have been rescued so far. The hostel, known as Hostel Daze, is located near Delhi University campus, and many students were reportedly in their rooms as classes were not in session on Sunday. A legislative assembly member noted that some trapped students were attempting to call for help from underneath the debris. Another nearby building reportedly collapsed as well, prompting the evacuation of the adjacent structure as a precaution.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that every possible effort is being made to safely rescue those trapped. The police confirmed that the building was only 40 to 50 years old, and the owner of a nearby shop stated that it was under a 100-year lease. The leaseholder had undertaken excavation work in the basement to boost their income.

However, the owner noted that the construction workers, including the trapped students, were buried due to weak pillars beneath the upper building, which had been strengthened. The National Students Union of India called for a thorough investigation into the collapse and held accountable anyone found negligent in ensuring the safety of students and common people. Police are currently searching for the building's owner.