New Delhi, September 7 (Daily Kiran) : In response to the tragic building collapse in Satya Niketan that claimed seven lives, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Monday that safety inspections of buildings in the capital will be intensified. Additionally, regulations concerning paying guest (PG) accommodations will be reviewed to enhance safety standards.
The Chief Minister shared on social media platform ‘X’ that she participated in a joint review meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Tarunjeet Singh Sandhu. The meeting focused on issues related to building safety, student housing, and PG regulations in Delhi.
Gupta emphasized the need for stricter safety checks, accountability, and improved coordination among various government agencies. She revealed that a committee will be established, led by Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood, to review the current PG regulations. This committee will also explore ways to enhance housing facilities for students through universities, municipal corporations, and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
The Chief Minister mentioned that the government is considering utilizing vacant DDA housing for students to provide safe and affordable accommodation.
A significant decision made during the meeting was to conduct a structural audit of existing PG buildings in the capital to assess their safety and structural integrity. This initiative comes amid growing concerns regarding the state of student housing following the Satya Niketan incident.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister announced the suspension of five officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in connection with the building collapse. The suspended officials include the Deputy Commissioner of the Southern Zone, a Superintending Engineer, an Executive Engineer, an Assistant Engineer, and a Junior Engineer.
Gupta has also directed a special campaign to identify and seal illegal buildings with unauthorized fifth floors across the city. Furthermore, she stated that nearby PG and other buildings will undergo thorough inspections, with strict action to be taken against any violations of regulations.
“Anyone found guilty or responsible will not be spared,” Gupta asserted.
The meeting included several senior officials, such as Delhi’s Chief Secretary Rajiv Verma, NDRF Director General Piyush Anand, and Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar. According to officials, these measures by the Delhi government indicate a comprehensive crackdown on unsafe buildings and reflect its commitment to addressing the shortage of safe and accessible housing for students in the city.
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