Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday visited the Satya Niketan building collapse site and directed officials to take strict action following the deaths of six people in the tragedy.
Gupta reviewed the ongoing rescue operation as teams continued searching through the debris of the five-storey building, which was being used as a boys’ paying guest accommodation. She said around 80% of the debris had been cleared, while rescue teams were still working in the basement.
According to the chief minister, 12 people had been rescued so far. Six of them died, while the remaining six were stable and receiving treatment. She said the government was keeping the victims’ families informed and ensuring that those injured received proper medical care.
Gupta said repair work had been underway in the basement of the old building and water had accumulated there. The government is investigating whether these factors contributed to the collapse.
Taking a strong stand on building safety, Gupta ordered the immediate sealing of buildings with illegal construction involving more than four floors. She also directed officials to carry out intensive inspections of PG accommodations and other buildings in the surrounding areas.
The chief minister said an FIR had been registered against the building owner and that officials found responsible for negligence would face action. She made it clear that no one responsible for compromising public safety would be spared.
Gupta also announced a structural audit of similar old buildings across Delhi. The government is preparing a policy under which owners may have to submit structural safety reports before operating old buildings as PG accommodations, nursing homes, schools or other commercial establishments.
The collapse also damaged a neighbouring building, which developed cracks and began tilting. Gupta said the structure had been evacuated as a precaution and would be demolished after the debris from the collapsed building was cleared and the area was deemed safe.
NDRF and Delhi Fire Services teams continued their rescue efforts using life detectors and specialised equipment. Officials said the narrow lanes around the site made it difficult to bring heavy rescue equipment close to the building.
Gupta’s visit came as rescue workers continued their search for possible survivors and officials assessed the safety of nearby structures. The chief minister said the government would take necessary steps to prevent similar incidents and ensure accountability in the case.
Reader Comments 0