Delhi weighs safety audits for DDA buildings older than 50 years

Seven people died when a five-storey paying-guest building collapsed in Satya Niketan near Delhi University’s South Campus. The Union government is considering regular safety audits for Delhi Development Authority (DDA) buildings more than 50 years old.

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the proposed audits could be conducted at intervals of 10, five and three years. The ministry is also considering a system under which DDA buildings constructed in the future would undergo a safety audit after 50 years.

Repair work was reportedly under way in the building’s basement when it collapsed. Officials are examining water accumulation in the basement and the work there as possible factors. Twelve people were rescued during the operation.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi suspended five officials, including the South Zone deputy commissioner and engineering officials. Police arrested the building owner in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, in connection with the case.

Khattar also outlined a proposed redevelopment fund for future DDA buildings, with stakeholder contributions intended to support reconstruction before structures become dilapidated.