When colleges became a refuge for students fleeing Satya Niketan

On Sunday, Janardhan found himself without a place to sleep after a building next to his hostel collapsed in Satya Niketan. Seeking refuge, he joined the throngs of students who fled the neighborhood in fear, heading towards Sri Venkateswara College. The college swiftly cleared two classrooms to set up makeshift sleeping arrangements, providing mattresses, fans, and meals to the 72 students who sought shelter.

Principal Prof Vajala Ravi even volunteered to sleep on a cot alongside the students, ensuring their safety during the night.

As news of the collapse spread, more colleges in Delhi University's South Campus opened their doors to displaced students. Maitreyi College transformed a hall in the academic block into a temporary shelter for women students, eventually accommodating all 30 girls who initially stayed. Both colleges provided meals and basic supplies, with staff and volunteers working tirelessly to support those in need.

The principal of Sri Venkateswara College, Prof Ravi, emphasized the college's commitment to continuing its open-door policy for any student in need. Despite the dwindling number of students seeking shelter over the days, the college remained vigilant, with Ravi himself rushing to the collapse site to assess the situation. The collapse had claimed the lives of five out of seven DU students, underscoring the urgency of the situation.