Rescue operations at the site of the Satya Niketan building collapse in south Delhi ended on Monday after multiple agencies worked through the night to search the debris and evacuate those trapped inside.
Five people were rescued and taken to nearby hospitals, while the death toll from the collapse rose to seven, according to Delhi Police. Three of the five survivors are in critical condition, officials said.
Building owner arrested
Delhi Police on Monday arrested the owner of the collapsed building, Hariram Bansal, from Bhiwadi in Rajasthan. Earlier on Monday, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) suspended five employees in connection with the deadly incident. His arrest came hours after the police issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against him as the investigation into the collapse intensified. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also visited the collapse site and vowed strict action against those found responsible for the tragedy.
Authorities said a total of 12 people were admitted to hospitals following the collapse of the five-storey building, which was being used as a paying guest accommodation for students.
Police said Bansal had allegedly gone absconding after the incident.
Collapse Investigation Underway Amid Rescue Efforts
The investigation into the cause of the recent collapse is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine what led to this incident. In the meantime, several emergency response agencies were actively involved in rescue and relief operations throughout the night.
