Six people, including an 80-year-old man, were killed when a portion of the roof of a dargah collapsed in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area on Friday evening. The incident occurred during Friday prayers, when several devotees had gathered at the site. At least five others were injured and have been admitted to the AIIMS Trauma Centre, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that 15 to 20 people were inside the structure at the time of the collapse, including the imam. The building, which is estimated to be around 25 to 30 years old, is believed to have given way without warning. The cause of the collapse is yet to be officially confirmed, although concerns have been raised about the condition and age of the structure. Authorities have since cordoned off the area to prevent further movement and ensure safety during ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) said they received a call about the incident at approximately 3:50 pm. In response, five fire tenders were dispatched to the location. According to officials, at least 12 people were pulled out from beneath the debris. Search and rescue efforts were conducted by personnel from the Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), who arrived promptly at the scene.
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic as people nearby rushed to help those trapped under the rubble. Many had gathered for the traditional Friday afternoon prayers, and the sudden collapse left the community in shock. Visuals from the site showed a small, lime-green building surrounding an open courtyard. A section of the roof appeared to have completely caved in, leaving behind a pile of debris.
The exact number of people inside the building at the time remains unclear, but rescue operations continued for several hours as officials searched for any remaining individuals. Investigations are underway to determine whether the structure had undergone any recent inspections or if there were known issues related to its safety.
Local authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that appropriate action will be taken following the inquiry. Meanwhile, the community has gathered in mourning, as questions are being raised about the upkeep and safety of older religious structures in the city.
