Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 9: Eight people, including women and children, lost their lives after a wall collapsed in Jaitpur’s Hari Nagar slum area in South East Delhi on Saturday morning, as continuous rainfall battered the city overnight.

According to police, the tragedy occurred when a wall near a temple gave way under the strain of waterlogged structures, triggering a fatal collapse. The victims — identified as Muttu Ali (45), Rabibul (30), Shabibul (30), Rubina (25), Dolly (25), Hashibul, Rukhsana (6), and Hasina (7) — were trapped under the debris. Despite efforts by residents and rescuers, all eight succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital.

The slum, which primarily houses scrap dealers, was immediately evacuated to prevent further incidents, officials said.

The heavy rainfall that contributed to the collapse also caused widespread disruption across Delhi-NCR. Waterlogging was reported in several key areas including Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, and Connaught Place, leading to massive traffic snarls, worsened by increased movement due to Rakhi festival shopping and travel.

The downpour affected air travel as well. Over 130 flights at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport were delayed, according to Flightradar data. Airlines including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India issued advisories, urging passengers to check flight statuses and allow additional time to reach the airport due to poor road conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a rain alert for the Capital, forecasting moderate rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) throughout the day.

In a public safety message on X, IMD urged residents to take precautions:

“Today, the skies turn moody... Drive cautiously — roads may be slippery. Secure loose items on balconies and rooftops. Avoid sheltering under trees during lightning.”

As the Capital continues to grapple with monsoon fury, authorities remain on alert for further weather-related risks.