New Delhi, May 31: A five-storey building collapsed near Saket Metro Station in South Delhi's Mehrauli area on Sunday, prompting a massive rescue operation by emergency response teams. Several people are feared trapped beneath the debris as authorities continue search and rescue efforts at the site.
The incident occurred during the afternoon hours, causing panic among local residents and commuters in the busy area. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise before the structure came crashing down, sending dust and debris across nearby roads and buildings.
Soon after the collapse, teams from the Delhi Fire Service, police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local administration rushed to the scene. Rescue personnel immediately began clearing debris in an effort to locate and evacuate those trapped under the rubble.
Officials confirmed that at least nine people have been rescued so far and shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. However, authorities believe more individuals may still be trapped, and rescue operations are expected to continue through the night.
Heavy earth-moving equipment, cranes, and specialized rescue tools have been deployed to assist in the operation. Ambulances remain stationed at the site, while medical teams are on standby to provide emergency care to survivors.
"The priority is to rescue anyone who may still be trapped under the debris," an official involved in the operation said. Authorities have also cordoned off the surrounding area to ensure public safety and facilitate uninterrupted rescue work.
The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been determined. Preliminary investigations are expected to examine the structural condition of the building, maintenance records, and whether any unauthorized construction or modifications contributed to the incident.
The collapse has once again raised concerns about the safety of aging and densely populated buildings in urban areas. Experts have frequently called for regular structural audits and stricter enforcement of building safety regulations to prevent similar incidents.
Traffic movement around the Mehrauli-Saket corridor has been affected due to the rescue operation, with commuters advised to use alternate routes. Local residents have been urged to avoid the area and cooperate with emergency personnel.
Senior government officials are closely monitoring the situation and have directed rescue agencies to take all necessary measures to save lives and provide assistance to affected families.
Further details are awaited as rescue operations continue and authorities assess the full extent of the damage.