- Roof collapse at Delhi airport’s Terminal 1 kills one and injures four.
- Heavy rain disrupts flights, prompting suspension of operations at the terminal.
- Rescue efforts underway; Federal Aviation Minister announces compensation.
A tragic incident unfolded at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport as heavy rain caused the roof of Terminal 1 to collapse, claiming one life and injuring four others. Videos circulating online depict massive pillars crashing onto cars parked near the terminal, leading to widespread disruption of flight operations.
The incident, occurring at 05:00 local time, prompted authorities to immediately suspend all flights from Terminal 1 and close check-in counters. Rescue operations swiftly commenced at the airport, with injured individuals rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The Federal Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, announced compensation of 2 million rupees for the family of the deceased and 300,000 rupees for the injured.
India’s aviation regulator has advised airlines to accommodate affected passengers on alternate flights or provide refunds, as the collapse severely impacted travel plans for thousands. Some airlines have relocated their operations to the remaining two terminals at the airport to minimize disruption.
Amidst public criticism on social media regarding the terminal’s recent renovation, Minister Kinjarapu clarified that the collapsed portion was not part of the newly renovated section inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March. He assured the public that inspections were underway across airports nationwide to prevent future incidents.
The heavy rainfall in Delhi, a relief from months of scorching temperatures, has also caused chaos across the city. Waterlogged roads have led to extensive traffic jams, stranding commuters for hours and causing vehicle breakdowns. Videos shared on social platforms depict submerged cars and people navigating through knee-deep water in flooded subways.
The meteorological department forecasts continued heavy rainfall over the weekend, exacerbating the city’s infrastructure challenges and further delaying flight schedules.
