Tragic Collapse Claims Life in Uttam Nagar
A 32-year-old woman died and her five-year-old daughter was injured after a portion of a three-storey building collapsed in the Hastsal Vihar area of Uttam Nagar, southwest Delhi, on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred while construction work was underway to remove girders from the upper floors, according to police and fire officials.
The woman, identified as Poonam, and her daughter, Navya, were on the ground floor when the rear portion of the building collapsed, trapping them under the debris. Rescue teams from the Delhi Fire Services, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police responded promptly to the emergency calls received between 3:07 and 3:21 PM. Firefighters and NDRF personnel worked tirelessly to extricate the victims from the rubble.
Poonam was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. Her daughter, Navya, sustained minor injuries and was discharged after receiving medical treatment. The building, spanning 48 square yards, was recently purchased by a couple, Pradeep and Sonu Yadav, who had initiated the renovation work. The structure consisted of a ground floor, a first floor, and a partially constructed second floor. The collapse occurred during the removal of girders from the upper floors.
Investigations Underway
Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and whether any safety protocols were violated during the renovation work. Preliminary findings suggest that the removal of structural girders without adequate support may have compromised the integrity of the building. The police are examining the construction permits and safety measures implemented during the renovation process.
This incident highlights the critical importance of adhering to safety standards and regulations during construction and renovation activities. Experts emphasize the need for proper structural assessments and the involvement of qualified engineers to ensure the stability of buildings, especially when modifications are being made to existing structures.
Community Reacts to the Tragedy
The collapse has sent shockwaves through the local community in Uttam Nagar. Residents expressed their grief and concern over the safety of buildings in the area, many of which are undergoing similar renovations. Local leaders have called for a review of construction practices and stricter enforcement of building codes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In response to the incident, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has announced plans to conduct safety audits of buildings undergoing construction and renovation in the region. The DDA has urged property owners and contractors to ensure compliance with all safety regulations and to take necessary precautions to prevent accidents.
FAQs
A: The collapse occurred during the removal of structural girders from the upper floors of the building, which may have compromised its stability.
A: Yes, a 32-year-old woman named Poonam died, and her five-year-old daughter, Navya, sustained minor injuries.
A: Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and are reviewing construction practices in the area to prevent future incidents.
