Four Family Members Rescued Alive After 30-Hour Operation Following Delhi Building Collapse

In a dramatic rescue operation, four family members were saved from the debris of a collapsed building in Burari. The incident occurred over 30 hours prior, and officials confirmed the rescue on Wednesday. Rajesh, aged 30, his wife Gangotri, 26, and their sons Prince, 6, and Ritik, 3, were pulled out alive on Tuesday night and are now hospitalised.

The family survived due to a ceiling slab falling onto a gas cylinder, creating a protective space. A video of them in an ambulance with their children has gone viral on social media. "My elder son is six years old and my younger son is three. We are thankful to God that we are saved," Rajesh told reporters.

Rescue Efforts Continue Amidst Tragedy

The four-storey building near Oscar Public School collapsed on Monday evening, resulting in five fatalities, including two minors. Rescue operations continue with teams from Delhi Police, NDRF, and Delhi Fire Services working tirelessly. Deputy Commissioner of Police North Raja Banthia stated that 21 individuals have been rescued so far; 16 survived while five perished.

Authorities are employing advanced technology to locate survivors under the rubble. The police have also brought in a dog squad for assistance. The ongoing rescue efforts have been active for over 48 hours as officials remain hopeful of finding more survivors.

Legal Actions and Investigations

An FIR has been filed against the building owner Yogendra Bhati under various sections of the BNS for culpable homicide. Bhati has been arrested as investigations continue. Lalta Prasad, who was injured in the collapse, lived in the same building with his family and provided crucial information for the FIR.

Prasad's statement revealed that he had warned Bhati about structural cracks and tilting issues in the building. Despite these warnings, Bhati allegedly ignored them and only covered the cracks with POP instead of proper repairs.

Negligence Allegations Surface

Prasad worked as a watchman at the building for Rs 9,000 per month and witnessed its expansion from two to four storeys. He claimed that Bhati dismissed his concerns about weakened pillars and potential collapse risks. Bhati reportedly told Prasad to focus on his duties rather than act like an expert.

The building collapsed suddenly around 6:30 pm on Monday while Prasad's family was in the parking area and Rajesh's family was on the first floor. Tragically, Prasad lost his two daughters in the incident and holds Bhati responsible for their deaths.

The senior police officer confirmed Bhati's arrest and stated that further investigations are ongoing while rescue operations persist. The community remains hopeful as authorities continue their efforts to ensure no one is left behind under the debris.