At Least One Dead, Six Injured as Delhi Airport Terminal 1 Roof Collapses Amid Heavy Rain

Heavy rain in Delhi took a devastating turn this morning when a portion of the roof of Delhi airport's Terminal-1 (T1) collapsed, killing one person and injuring six others. The incident occurred at around 5:30 am, causing widespread damage to the terminal's pick-up and drop area, where four cars were parked.

According to officials, the roof sheet and support beams collapsed, resulting in the tragic incident. The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) were alerted, and rescue operations were carried out to evacuate those trapped under the debris. A man was seen being taken out from a car on which an iron beam had fallen.

Following the incident, all departures from Terminal 1, which operates only domestic flights, have been temporarily suspended. The civil aviation ministry announced that alternate arrangements are being made for smooth operation of flights. Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu visited the airport and inspected Terminal 1, stating that the airport will temporarily shift operations to Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.

IndiGo and SpiceJet, the two airlines operating from Terminal 1, have cancelled their flights until further notice. IndiGo said that its flight operations were impacted due to structural damage to Terminal 1, and passengers are not able to enter the terminal. SpiceJet also cancelled its flights, advising passengers to keep track of updates on their social media channels.

Why It Matters : The incident raises concerns about the safety and maintenance of airport infrastructure, particularly during extreme weather conditions. The collapse of the roof at Terminal 1 highlights the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff.

The incident also underscores the importance of preparedness and contingency planning during heavy rain and flooding. Delhi has been experiencing heavy rain for the second consecutive day, causing waterlogging in several parts of the city. The Safdarjung Observatory recorded 154 mm of rainfall between yesterday and today morning, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The Union Minister of Civil Aviation announced a compensation of ₹ 20 lakh for the family of the victim and ₹ 3 lakh each for those injured.

Key Takeaways :

• One person was killed and six others injured when a portion of the roof of Delhi airport's Terminal-1 collapsed amid heavy rain.
• All departures from Terminal 1 have been temporarily suspended, and alternate arrangements are being made for smooth operation of flights.
• IndiGo and SpiceJet have cancelled their flights until further notice due to structural damage to Terminal 1.
• The incident raises concerns about the safety and maintenance of airport infrastructure during extreme weather conditions.
• The Union Minister of Civil Aviation announced a compensation of ₹ 20 lakh for the family of the victim and ₹ 3 lakh each for those injured.

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