CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Delhi: New Delhi. A father and son died after a portion of an old house collapsed on Sunday evening in Harsh Vihar, in north-east Delhi. Their bodies were recovered from the debris on Monday morning, not Tuesday morning, after an overnight search operation. The deceased have been identified as 60-year-old Chandrapal and his 33-year-old son Vijay Kumar.
A new lintel was being laid on the old structure
According to preliminary information, the accident took place in the Milan Garden area of Harsh Vihar. Work was under way to lay a new RCC lintel on the old structure of the house. It is said that the old iron-and-stone roof was being removed and replaced with a concrete roof. During this work, a portion of the building collapsed, trapping Chandrapal and Vijay under the debris. Preliminary investigation has raised the possibility that the old structure could not bear the additional weight. However, the actual cause of the accident will be known only after a detailed investigation.
Rescue operation continued through the night
After information about the accident was received, Delhi Fire Services, police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other rescue teams reached the spot. Machines were used to remove the debris. After the overnight operation, both victims were pulled out and taken to Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital, where doctors declared them dead. The incident has come as a major shock to the family. According to relatives, Chandrapal and Vijay were key members supporting the family’s livelihood.
House owner arrested, investigation continues
According to police, the house owner, Manoj Kumar, has been arrested. The investigation is examining the permission for construction work, the structural condition of the building and the circumstances linked to the accident. Initial information has raised questions about safety standards during the construction work and the capacity of the old structure. The incident has increased concern in Delhi over additional construction on old houses and compliance with building safety rules. Officials said further legal action will be taken on the basis of the findings of the investigation.
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