Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the building collapse incident in Satya Niketan area of New Delhi and directed the registration of an FIR against the building owner. The Chief Minister’s Office said the decision was taken following an on-site review and a preliminary assessment of the incident. The CMO said those found responsible for the grave incident will be held fully accountable and dealt with under the strictest provisions of law.
Death toll in the incident has risen to six following the recovery of one more body late last night. Search and rescue operations continued at the site as teams work to clear the debris and look for any trapped person. Teams from the NDRF, Fire Service, Delhi Police, and other agencies are working at the site to clear the debris.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the Delhi Chief Minister, Delhi Police Commissioner and Director General of NDRF and assessed the situation on the ground. Mr Shah said, the injured are being provided with all necessary medical assistance.
The building was being used as paying guest accommodation. A senior police officer said repair work was underway in the basement when the structure collapsed at around 1.30 pm yesterday.
Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi has said that all illegal constructions having more than four floors will be sealed with immediate effect. He said strict action will also be taken against officials found responsible, including their immediate dismissal.
Sri Venkateswara College of the University of Delhi will remain closed today in the wake of the tragic building collapse. The college has said that, as a temporary measure, it is accommodating students in its classrooms following the closure of several paying guest accommodations and the sense of insecurity among students residing in the Satyaniketan area.
Aryabhatta College has also suspended teaching today, in view of the building collapse. The college has been converted to a temporary shelter for students affected by the incident. However, teaching and non-teaching staff will remain available at the college to extend necessary assistance, cooperation and support to students during this difficult time.
