NDRF Intensifies Rescue Operations After Delhi Building Collapse; Multiple Agencies Deployed

A four-storey paying guest accommodation collapsed near Delhi University's South Campus in South Delhi, resulting in the deaths of three people. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force and Delhi Fire Service are racing against time to clear heavy debris and collapsed roofs using cranes, JCB machines, and heavy cutters. Officials noted that the debris clearance could take several more hours. Heavy deployment of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel is managing crowds in the student area. The incident has also triggered political reactions, with leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress visiting the collapse site alongside student organisations.

Rescue operations led by the Delhi Fire Service and the National Disaster Response Force are underway following a major collapse where the roof fell from a height of five storeys. Officials stated that the complete roof collapse broke into heavy chunks of debris, initially blocking entrance roads before being cleared for aid and assistance. Teams face difficulties as the large concrete chunks must be broken down before JCB machines can remove them from the site. Operations are expected to take several more hours as authorities work through the rubble.

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.