Delhi Collapse: Rescue Operations Underway After 5-Storey Roof Falls

In an interview with India Today, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) Chairman Siddhesh Kadam discussed the environmental impact of data centers, loudspeaker regulations during festivals, and incidents of violence against healthcare workers. Addressing concerns over upcoming data centers in residential areas, Kadam stated that MPCB is collaborating with IIT Mumbai to formulate a comprehensive policy and operating guidelines regarding siting criteria, buffer zones, water sourcing, energy usage, heat generation, and noise control. On the use of high-decibel DJ systems and loudspeakers during festival seasons, Kadam urged citizens to avoid western sound systems and return to traditional cultural practices such as Puneri Dhol, Nashik Dhol, and Koli brass bands. He remarked, "We should celebrate these festivals in our own traditional way, rather than adopting the Western cultures of having these loudspeakers, laser lights and the DJ system." Furthermore, Kadam condemned assaults on medical personnel, asserting that no individual may take the law into their hands and all offenders will face legal action.

Dramatic visuals from south-west Delhi’s Satya Niketan show locals desperately trying to rescue a man trapped beneath the debris of a collapsed five-storey building, using their bare hands and whatever tools they could find. Two people have died and nine have been rescued so far as the search and rescue operation continues at the site. A sudden tremor-like shake sent residents rushing out of nearby buildings on Sunday, only to find the student accommodation building, Hostel Daze, reduced to a heap of rubble. Locals immediately began clearing concrete slabs in a frantic search for those trapped inside. The building, located in the densely packed area near Delhi University’s South Campus, had around 15 rooms, with two to three students reportedly staying in each. Two NDRF teams comprising around 70 personnel are currently engaged in the rescue operation, using canines, cutting equipment and other technical tools. The teams are working alongside the Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police and local residents.

Addressing the student tragedy in Delhi, the speaker stressed that it is time for rescue operations rather than political blame games. Noting that three students were evacuated while an estimated 25 to 26 remained affected, the speaker pointed out delays in the arrival of police and ambulances. The speaker questioned civic bodies including the MCD and NDMC over alleged corruption, negligence, and lack of safety norms for student accommodations. Citing past incidents in Saket and Satya Niketan, the speaker demanded accountability from authorities and called for scrutiny into the role of the local MLA regarding paying guest operations in the area.

Severe flooding has impacted several districts across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar following water release from neighbouring Nepal. Residential areas in districts including Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Chitrakoot have experienced waterlogging and disruption, prompting aerial inspections and continuous monitoring. Authorities have pledged comprehensive assistance and essential relief supplies to all affected and displaced families, stating that protecting lives remains the foremost priority. While river water levels have begun receding in certain localities, flood-like conditions persist, with local administrations actively distributing relief material and implementing safety measures across the impacted regions.