Several feared trapped after five-storey building collapses near Saket Metro Station in Delhi

New Delhi: Several people are feared trapped beneath the rubble after a five-storey building collapsed near Saket Metro Station in south Delhi on Saturday evening, prompting a major rescue operation.

The incident occurred on Western Marg in the Saidulajab area, close to the busy metro station. According to officials, the entire structure gave way, collapsing into a massive pile of debris consisting of concrete slabs, twisted metal and broken pillars.

Police sources said the building housed a coaching institute on the ground floor, while construction work was reportedly underway on the upper floors at the time of the collapse. Authorities suspect that some of those trapped may be students, although the exact number of people inside the building remains unclear.

The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) received an emergency call about the collapse at 7.44pm and immediately dispatched seven fire tenders to the scene.

Rescue teams from the fire department and police launched search operations amid chaotic scenes in the densely populated neighbourhood. Residents and local volunteers rushed to assist, using mobile phone torches and flashlights to search through the rubble and help emergency responders.

Witnesses described frantic efforts to clear access routes for rescue vehicles as anxious locals gathered around the site, fearing people could be trapped beneath the debris.

No significant damage to neighbouring buildings was reported immediately after the collapse.

Authorities have yet to confirm the number of casualties or those trapped inside the building. Rescue operations were continuing late into the evening, with further details awaited.