In brief
A five‑storey residential hostel near Delhi University collapsed on Sunday, killing at least one student and leaving two others in critical condition. Roughly 50 occupants were inside, with six rescued so far and many believed still trapped beneath the rubble. The collapse coincided with excavation work in the basement that may have weakened the building’s foundations. Delhi Police and the National Student Union are demanding a full investigation, while the owner’s lease-holder, who conducted overt excavation, faces scrutiny. Authorities have called for all possible rescue efforts and have evacuated adjacent structures as a precaution.
A five‑storey residential building near Delhi University collapsed on Sunday afternoon, killing one student and leaving two others in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses report that as many as 50 people were inside the Satya Niketan hostel when it came tumbling at about 13:30 local time (08:00 GMT). Six people have already been rescued, but many occupants are believed to still be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
The building had ongoing construction work in its basement. Local police said the owner had undertaken excavation in the basement to increase income, weakening the pillars beneath the already‑strengthened upper floors.
Delhi Police noted the construction was only 40‑50 years old, while the adjacent shop owner confirmed a 100‑year lease and construction activity nearby that might have contributed to the collapse.
The National Students' Union of India demanded an investigation and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable, stating “Negligence with the safety of students and common people will not be tolerated at any cost.”
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that a building next to the hostel had been evacuated as a precaution and added that all resources are being directed toward a safe rescue for those still trapped.
The building’s owner is currently missing, and police are continuing a search to identify the responsible parties.
