Satya Niketan PG Collapse: Supreme Court To Hear Case At 2 PM

The tragic incident of a building collapse in Delhi's Satya Niketan area has reached the Supreme Court of India. The apex court has taken significant cognizance of the disaster, which resulted in the loss of seven lives and left several others injured. In a major development, the Amicus Curiae appointed by the court has submitted a detailed status report, recommending an immediate and comprehensive safety audit and inspection of all Paying Guest (PG) accommodations and private hostels operating across the national capital.

Supreme Court Hearing Scheduled for 2 PM

The matter is expected to be heard by the Supreme Court today at 2:00 PM. Senior advocate and Amicus Curiae Ajit Kumar Sinha, who filed the status report, is likely to mention the matter before the bench to seek an urgent hearing. The report highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for judicial intervention to ensure the safety of thousands of students living in such facilities. The Amicus Curiae will urge the court to issue directions for a time-bound inspection of all such residential units.

Details of the Satya Niketan Tragedy

According to the report submitted to the court, the incident occurred at building P-14 in Satya Niketan on September 6 at approximately 1:30 PM. The structure consisted of a basement and four additional floors, while at the time of the collapse, the building was being used as a boys' PG under the name 'Hostel Daze'. The report confirms that 7 people lost their lives in this horrific accident, while at least 12 people were successfully rescued from the debris. Many of those rescued are reported to have sustained serious injuries.

Recommendations for Immediate Safety Audit

The Amicus Curiae's report emphasizes the urgent need for a time-bound safety audit and inspection of all PGs and private hostels located near colleges and universities in Delhi.

Recurring Incidents in Satya Niketan

The report points out that Satya Niketan, located near Delhi University's South Campus, has become a major hub for students. The area is densely packed with PGs, private hostels, mess facilities, eateries, and other commercial establishments. The recurring nature of such accidents in this locality is a matter of grave concern. The report cites a previous incident in April 2022, where another building collapse in the same area resulted in 2 deaths and 4 injuries. These repeated tragedies raise serious questions about the effectiveness of regular building inspections, the identification of dangerous structures, and the enforcement of building regulations in the national capital.