Jobaaj Stories
A Night of Horror in Mustafabad
In the early hours of Saturday, tragedy struck the Mustafabad neighborhood in northeast Delhi when a four-story residential building collapsed, killing 11 people and injuring several others. The structure, built over 20 years ago, was reportedly unauthorized and lacked any official safety clearances. Authorities suspect that construction work underway on the ground floor may have weakened the already fragile building.
Among the dead were seven members from a single family, including three children, all relatives of 25-year-old Chand, who lived on the second floor. Chand survived the collapse but suffered injuries. His entire world, however, crumbled around him.
Chand lost his wife, Chandni (23), his father Tehsin (60), Brother Nazeem (30), his sister-in-law Shahina (28), and thier three children : Afreen (4), Anas (6), and Afan (2). His mother Zeenat remains hospitalized in critical condition, fighting for her life. Ishaq (75), a relative who was visiting Nazeem's children was also among the victims.
Families Torn Apart
Another family on the first floor also faced devastating losses. Brothers Danish (21) and Naved (17) died in the incident, while their parents Shahid (45) and Rehana (38) were critically injured. Their sister, Neha (19), managed to pull her parents out of the rubble but couldn't save her brothers. Danish, who ran a scrap business, was supporting the household and saving up for his and Neha’s wedding.
The third floor was home to Reshma (38) and her family. While Reshma lost her life, her husband Ahmed (45) and daughter Tanu (15) were seriously injured and remain hospitalized. Her son Alfez (20) and daughter Aliya (17) were discharged after treatment.
'It Felt Like an Earthquake'
Neighbors described the collapse as a terrifying moment. “It felt like an earthquake,” said Gulam Hossain, who rushed to help after seeing the dust cloud and hearing cries for help.
Locals say there was construction happening on the ground floor, possibly weakening the structure.
Government Response and Investigation
Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta ordered a full investigation. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) confirmed the building was illegal and had no clearance. Minister Kapil Mishra promised action against MCD officials who allowed the structure to stand.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences to the grieving families.
