Rescue operations underway after a two-storey under-construction building collapsed in Delhi's Paharganj area. (Img: Dynamite News)
New Delhi: A major building collapse in the densely populated Paharganj area of the national capital triggered panic on Sunday, after a two-storey structure under construction suddenly came crashing down while workers were engaged in concrete slab-laying work. Initial reports suggested that around 25-30 labourers may be trapped beneath the rubble.
The incident occurred in Chuna Mandi locality of Paharganj, where the under-construction building reportedly collapsed while the construction team was undertaking lanter and slab-related work. The sudden structural failure left workers buried beneath heavy debris, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Around 10-12 workers have been pulled out from the debris and shifted to the Lady Hardinge Hospital for medical treatment. However, the condition of the rescued workers and the exact number of people still trapped remains unclear.
Following the incident, the Delhi Fire Service received an emergency distress call regarding the collapse of the under-construction building. Three fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the location to assist in rescue and relief operations.
Police personnel also reached the accident site and initiated emergency response measures. Authorities have advised residents, pedestrians and bystanders to maintain a safe distance from the collapsed structure. Rescue teams are working to assess the debris and locate workers who may still be trapped beneath the collapsed portions of the building.
Initial reports indicated that approximately 20-25 labourers were present at the construction site when the structure collapsed. Around 10-12 workers have reportedly been rescued and most likely taken to Lady Hardinge hospital. However, officials are yet to establish the precise number of workers present at the site at the time of the accident.
The exact cause of the accident is yet to be established. The building reportedly collapsed during ongoing construction work involving the laying of a concrete slab (lanter).
The Delhi Fire Service and police teams have reached the accident site. Authorities are also taking precautionary measures to keep the surrounding area clear and prevent crowds from interfering with rescue operations. Further details regarding the number of casualties, the identities of the rescued workers, the condition of those admitted to hospital and the circumstances leading to the collapse are awaited.
