Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday visited the site of a tragic four-storey building collapse in the Saidulajab area near Saket Metro Station, where rescue operations have been underway since Saturday evening. The incident has so far claimed at least two lives, while several others are feared trapped under the debris. The Chief Minister reviewed ongoing relief efforts and assured strict action against illegal constructions across the city.

During her visit to the site, CM Gupta directed officials to expedite search and rescue operations being carried out by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Police, and civil defence units. She also instructed authorities to ensure that all possible measures are taken to locate and rescue those still trapped. Officials have estimated that around 10 people may still be buried under the rubble, while nine individuals have been rescued so far.

According to statements from the Chief Minister’s Office, a criminal case has been registered at Mehrauli Police Station in connection with the collapse. A magisterial inquiry has also been ordered under the supervision of the District Magistrate of South Delhi to determine the circumstances that led to the incident. Authorities have further been directed to inspect other structurally unsafe or dilapidated buildings in the surrounding area to prevent similar tragedies.

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Speaking to reporters at the site, CM Gupta said strict action will be taken against all unauthorised constructions and those responsible for regulatory lapses. She added that accountability will be fixed not only on property owners but also on officials in concerned departments if negligence is found. The statement comes amid growing concerns over building safety and enforcement of urban construction norms in densely populated areas of the capital.

Eyewitness accounts suggest the collapse occurred around 6 p.m. on Saturday when a structure under construction, consisting of a ground floor and three additional floors, suddenly gave way and fell onto a nearby tin shed canteen. At the time, several people, including children, were present in the area, leading to panic and chaos following the incident. Rescue teams have since been working continuously to clear debris and locate survivors.

Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the collapse, while rescue operations remain ongoing under challenging conditions. Officials have said that updates will be provided as search efforts progress and more information becomes available. The incident has once again raised serious questions about unauthorised construction and enforcement of safety regulations in the capital.

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