On 30 May 2026, a multi-storey commercial building in Saidulajab collapsed, killing six people and injuring several others. The rescue teams worked nearly 20 hours to remove debris and rescue the trapped people.
The investigation done by Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) found that the buildings comprised a basement, ground floor, first floor, and second floor. As the lower floors were built about 12-13 years ago, the 3rd and 4th floors were built recently, may have been constructed without any approval, suspect authority.
As per Delhi’s legal framework, construction after June 2014 in unauthorized colonies is considered illegal. Since the upper floors were added recently, authorities suspect the additions could be unauthorised.
Furthermore, the authorities suspect that adding extra floors could have increased the building’s load. Unauthorized activities have been found in the area, and checks are underway to determine whether they received proper approvals and conducted safety checks. In addition, two MCD engineers were suspended for alleged lapses in supervision.
Another incident, on June 3, 2026, left people devastated. A fire broke out at Flourish Stay B&B, Malviya Nagar, Delhi. The fire claimed 21 lives, and many were injured. Most victims were medical tourists and their attendants staying near hospitals.
Investigations revealed that the building lacked proper fire safety clearance, additional floors may have been constructed without approvals, and the establishment operated with more rooms than permitted.
Commanding the matter, the MCD official said, “All commercial properties found flouting norms and operating in the area will be sealed within the next 48 hours.”
Witnesses and officials reported that the building has only one major entry or exit point, a poor ventilation facility, and locked access to some areas during the emergency.
With different incidents, they were connected by unauthorized construction, weak regulations, and possible illegal building modifications. Together, the need for stronger urban governance, regular safety audits, and stricter measures needs to be looked at.
Sourced from Hindustan Times and ET Realty.
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