New Delhi, April 20 — What began as an ordinary night turned into a nightmare for residents of Delhi’s Mustafabad area, where a four-storey residential building collapsed, killing 11 people and injuring several others. Survivors described the terrifying moment as resembling an earthquake, with the ground shaking violently and a thunderous crash that echoed through the neighborhood.
“It felt like an earthquake. We rushed out but by then, it was too late for many inside,” said a local resident, still in shock.
The tragic incident occurred late Friday night, and emergency services were immediately deployed. The NDRF and Delhi Fire Services teams worked tirelessly through the night, pulling survivors and bodies from beneath the rubble.
🏗️ Government Response
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the site on Saturday morning and announced a high-level probe into the incident. She also met with grieving families and promised financial aid and strict action against those responsible.
“This is an unthinkable tragedy. I have ordered a detailed investigation. Any negligence will not be spared,” said CM Gupta.
🕯️ Grief and Anger in the Community
Tensions ran high as families gathered outside the site and nearby hospitals, mourning the loss of their loved ones. Many voiced anger at the lack of proper checks and alleged that illegal construction and structural violations had been previously ignored by authorities.
Residents said the building had shown visible cracks for months, but complaints reportedly went unheeded.
🛑 What We Know So Far
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Death toll: 11 confirmed dead
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Injured: Over a dozen, some critically
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Location: Mustafabad, North-East Delhi
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Cause: Suspected structural failure; probe underway
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Response: NDRF, Fire Services, Police, and medical teams deployed
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Political Reaction: CM Rekha Gupta assures justice, calls it a “preventable tragedy”
🧠 Expert Take
Urban planning experts say the collapse underscores urgent need for structural audits in older and unauthorized colonies. The incident has reignited debate over building safety regulations in the capital.
