One man was killed and three others injured after a dilapidated two-storey building undergoing demolition collapsed in Karol Bagh , New Delhi on Friday morning, police said, adding that the contractor for the project has been arrested.
A police team reached the spot after receiving information and, along with Delhi Fire Services (DFS) personnel, launched rescue operations. Four labourers were affected in the incident. One of them, identified as Sheikh Shamshad, in his 20s, succumbed to his injuries. Sheikh Saidul, in his 20s, suffered limb injuries and was taken to Jeevan Mala Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment.
The incident took place around 11.15am at a building on Pyare Lal Road in Regarpura, according to deputy commissioner of police (central) Rohit Rajbir Singh.
Police said the building collapsed while demolition work was underway, trapping labourers at the site. His body was shifted to the mortuary at Lady Hardinge Medical College and Hospital for further proceedings, police said. The fourth labourer, Rafik-Ul, also in his 20s, sustained minor injuries and subsequently left for his residence, police said.
Rescue ops continue as contractor faces questioning
Police and fire service personnel continued rescue operations to ensure no other person remained trapped under the debris. Investigators are verifying whether safety precautions were followed during the demolition and the circumstances that led to the sudden collapse.
The building owner and the contractor engaged for the demolition were detained for questioning, while the contractor, identified as Arun, was arrested, according to police. They are also verifying the role of the owner, as police said no permission for the demolition had been obtained from the MCD. “Further legal action under appropriate provisions will be initiated after verification of the facts and assessment of the circumstances leading to the collapse,” a senior police officer said.
