Catastrophe in Delhi: 8 Lives Lost as Building Crumbles in Downpour
In Delhi on August 9, 2025, a tragic incident occurred when a boundary wall collapsed in Hari Nagar, resulting in the loss of at least eight lives, including two children. The victims were identified as Shabibul (30), Rabibul (30), Muttu Ali (45), Rubina (25), Dolly (25), Rukhsana (6), and Haseena (7).
The incident took place early Saturday morning following intense rainfall that led to waterlogging and severe traffic disruptions across the city. The wall, which was old and weakened by the heavy rain, caused soil and mud to slide down and bring the wall down onto nearby jhuggis (temporary shelters).
Authorities quickly responded to the incident, evacuating the affected jhuggi settlement to prevent further mishaps. Rescue operations involved fire and police teams, with three fire trucks and police teams dispatched to the location. Initially reported as a building collapse, the incident was later confirmed as a wall collapse.
The weather station at Safdarjung recorded 78.7 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours till 8.30 am on Saturday. Lodhi Road recorded 80 mm of rainfall, while Pragati Maidan recorded 100 mm in the same time period. Other areas affected by heavy rain included Pusa (69 mm) and Palam (31.8 mm). The temperature on Saturday morning was 3.2 notches below the average, recording at 23.8 degrees Celsius.
The exact cause of the wall collapse is yet to be determined, but the incident has drawn attention to the risks posed by heavy monsoon rains on old, structurally unsound walls and settlements in Delhi's low-lying areas. Families of the deceased are mourning, with one survivor undergoing treatment. Relief arrangements like temporary shelter and food have been arranged by local volunteers for displaced residents.
Officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious during ongoing adverse weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe living conditions during the monsoon season. The Delhi Fire Service and police continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of the city's residents.
- The tragic wall collapse in Hari Nagar on August 9, 2025, which claimed at least eight lives, was preceded by intense rainfall that caused significant weather disruptions throughout Delhi.
- The incident has raised concerns about the risks posed by old, structurally unsound walls and settlements in low-lying areas during general news events like heavy monsoon rains, emphasizing the need for residents to remain cautious.
