In a tragic incident that has shaken North East Delhi, a four-storey residential building collapsed in the Mustafabad area in the early hours of April 19, 2025. The collapse resulted in the deaths of at least four people, while several others were left trapped under the debris. Rescue efforts by emergency services are currently ongoing.
Details of the Incident
The building, situated in Shakti Vihar, Mustafabad, came crashing down around 2:30 AM while its residents were asleep. Initial reports indicate that around 22 people were inside the building at the time. Eighteen individuals have been rescued and rushed to nearby hospitals, while emergency teams continue to search for others who may still be buried under the rubble.
Residents described hearing a loud, thunderous noise followed by screams and chaos. Dust clouds engulfed the narrow lanes, making initial rescue operations difficult.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Services, and local police are working tirelessly at the site. With the help of earthmovers, sniffer dogs, and thermal scanners, rescue teams have managed to pull several people to safety.
The area has been cordoned off, and power supply to the vicinity was temporarily cut to facilitate the operation. Emergency medical tents have also been set up to provide immediate assistance to the injured.
Suspected Causes of the Collapse
Authorities have cited multiple potential causes behind the structural failure. Recent spells of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Delhi are being considered as one of the factors that could have weakened the foundation. Additionally, initial assessments suggest that structural irregularities or unauthorized construction might have contributed to the tragedy.
A detailed technical survey and forensic investigation have been ordered to determine the exact reasons behind the collapse.
Government Response and Public Reaction
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed her condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that strict action would be taken against those found guilty of negligence. The Chief Minister has directed the concerned departments to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of old buildings in the region.
Citizens and activists have voiced concerns over the lax enforcement of building regulations and the growing number of unauthorized structures in densely populated areas like Mustafabad.
Conclusion
The Mustafabad building collapse serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for stronger regulation and monitoring of construction activities in urban areas. As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives and ensuring accountability. Authorities have pledged to implement stricter safety checks to prevent similar incidents in the future.
