Tragic Structure Collapse Near Humayun's Tomb During Independence Day Celebrations Claims Six Lives

A wall collapse at a dargah near Humayun's Tomb during Independence Day festivities resulted in six deaths and four injuries. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos and urgency of the situation, raising significant safety concerns.

The collapse of a wall near the Humayun's Tomb in Nizamuddin on Friday turned Independence Day into a tragedy. Six people lost their lives, and four others were injured. An eyewitness recounted narrowly escaping harm by stepping outside just before the wall fell. "The sound of people crying for help will haunt me forever," he said, visibly shaken.

Another witness described her close call with the disaster. She was about to enter a room when the wall gave way. "I kept shouting for help but there was no one nearby," she recalled. Eventually, others arrived to assist in rescuing those trapped under the debris.

Rescue Efforts and Victim Identification

Rescue teams from various agencies, including Delhi Police and the National Disaster Response Force, worked together to save around 10 to 12 people buried under the rubble. Vishal Kumar, who works at Humayun's Tomb, joined the rescue efforts. "There were at least 10 to 12 people trapped, including the Imam of the dargah," he noted.

Among those who perished was Moin Uddin, aged 32, who supported his family by working at a garment shop. Moin had moved from Bihar and was the sole breadwinner for his family, which included his wife and two young children. "He used to send money back home in Bihar to support his parents and younger brother," said Waseem Uddin, Moin's landlord.

Official Statements and Site Details

Authorities confirmed that five victims admitted to AIIMS Trauma Centre succumbed to their injuries. The area has been cordoned off, according to Joint Commissioner of Police Sanjay Kumar Jain. The incident occurred as victims gathered in a small room for Friday prayers.

The collapse did not affect the main dome of Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ratish Nanda from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture clarified that only a newly-built structure within the premises was involved. "There has been no damage to Humayun's Tomb," he stated.

Impact on Families and Community

The tragic event left families like Moin's grappling with loss and uncertainty about their future without their primary provider. What began as a routine visit for prayer turned into chaos and sorrow for many involved.

With inputs from PTI