The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has launched an investigation after three buildings in the influence zone of tunnelling works collapsed, killing one person.
The three commercial buildings in the Mithaipul area in Sadar Bazaar collapsed at around 2am on Friday. They were in the area of tunnelling for the Janakpuri West–RK Ashram Marg corridor of Delhi Metro’s Phase IV extension.
DMRC said the buildings were identified as unsafe prior to tunnelling work starting in the area and had been evacuated by DMRC.
“Letters requesting evacuation of the buildings had been issued to the building owners by DMRC on 12th June 2025,” the corporation said in a statement.
“It was clearly communicated that these structures were in an extremely dilapidated condition and therefore, as a precautionary measure, the evacuation of the structures was necessary. Accordingly, the buildings were subsequently evacuated. Additionally, necessary subsoil grouting and external supports were provided at the site to stabilise the structures and mitigate any risk due to tunnelling.”
Immediately after the collapse debris removal operations were started in co-ordination with the National Disaster Response Force and Delhi Police.
“The area has been properly barricaded as well. However, unfortunately, one casualty occurred during this operation,” said DMRC.
An ex-gratia of ₹ 5 lakhs has been announced by DMRC for the deceased’s next of kin.
Tunnelling work is being executed by Afcons.
