New Delhi, July 11, 2025 — In the early hours of Friday morning, three adjacent structures—used as shops and offices—in the Mithaipul area of Sadar Bazaar collapsed around 2 a.m. These buildings were located within the influence zone of the ongoing Delhi Metro tunnelling project on the Janakpuri West–RK Ashram Marg corridor and had been previously flagged for safety concerns.
According to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), these buildings had been officially issued evacuation notices on June 12, 2025, after being classified as “extremely dilapidated.” The DMRC confirmed that they had already been evacuated before the tunnelling commenced. “Subsoil grouting and external supports were also put in place to stabilise the structures,” a statement said.
Almost immediately after the collapse, rescue operations began. The DMRC coordinated efforts with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Delhi Police. The site has been cordoned off and debris removal is in progress. Tragically, one casualty occurred during the collapse; DMRC has announced a ₹5 lakh ex gratia payment for the deceased’s next of kin. The tunnelling work is conducted by Afcons Infrastructure.
DMRC has ordered a full internal investigation into the incident and emphasized that it had taken all reasonable precautions in advance.
Tunnel construction risks: Work is actively underway beneath heavily populated urban zones, demanding rigorous structural management and continuous monitoring.
Safety audit underway: DMRC has initiated a comprehensive probe to assess both engineering safeguards and procedural compliance leading up to the collapse.
Legal and accountability angle: If lapses are found, the agencies responsible—tunnelling contractors, civil contractors, or structural reviewers—could be held to account.
Potential regulatory follow-up: Government authorities may examine site safety protocols across other Metro stretch areas, particularly in heritage and densely inhabited zones.
