The death toll in the building collapse in northeast Delhi’s New Seemapuri rose to five on Thursday after rescue teams recovered two more bodies from the debris. Search and rescue operations remain underway, with authorities saying that one or two more people may still be trapped.
The four-storey building collapsed at around 3.30pm on Wednesday in the narrow lanes of New Seemapuri. Among those who died was 21-year-old Gulafsa, who was four months pregnant. Two children were also among the victims.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Rajendra Prasad Meena confirmed that two more bodies, both women, were recovered on Thursday. One was around 60 years old and the other was 35. Their identities were yet to be officially confirmed.
Police and disaster response teams are continuing to clear the rubble to determine whether anyone else remains trapped. The operation involves the National Disaster Response Force, Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police, Civil Defence, district administration and the Delhi Disaster Management Authority.
At least eight cranes and earth-moving machines have been deployed to remove the debris. Four ambulances and medical teams are also stationed at the site to provide immediate assistance if survivors are found.
A preliminary inquiry has indicated that construction work at a neighbouring building may have contributed to the collapse. Northeast Delhi District Magistrate Ajay Kumar said the adjacent building reportedly had an illegal section that was being removed by labourers.
According to the preliminary findings, the removal work had been continuing for three to four days and involved the use of a vibrating machine. Officials suspect that the vibrations may have weakened the neighbouring structure and triggered its collapse.
However, authorities have stressed that the exact cause has not yet been established. A magisterial inquiry has already been ordered to determine the sequence of events and identify the factors responsible for the tragedy.
The owner of the collapsed building, identified by police as Anwar, is currently absconding, according to a senior police officer. Police said efforts are underway to locate and question him.
The building reportedly stood on a plot measuring around 25 square yards, highlighting the concerns surrounding construction and structural safety in the densely populated area.
Local residents rushed to the site immediately after the collapse and helped emergency personnel access the debris through a narrow route beside an Eidgah. A large crowd gathered around the area as rescue teams worked through the rubble.
Officials said around 75% of the debris had been cleared by Thursday morning and estimated that the operation could be completed within the next few hours, subject to conditions at the site.
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