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New Delhi, June 28, 2024 — Chaos erupted at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport this morning when a section of the roof in Terminal 3 collapsed, resulting in several injuries and significant flight disruptions.
The incident occurred around 8:00 AM local time. Initial reports indicate that a part of the ceiling near the security check area gave way, sending debris crashing onto the crowded terminal below. Emergency responders were swiftly on the scene, evacuating the area and providing medical assistance to those injured. Authorities have confirmed that at least 15 people have sustained injuries, with three in critical condition.
Passengers described a scene of panic and confusion as the roof caved in. “I was in line for security when I heard a loud cracking noise,” said Ramesh Kumar, a passenger en route to Mumbai. “The next thing I knew, the ceiling was coming down, and people were screaming and running.”
The cause of the collapse is not yet known, but airport officials have launched an investigation. Preliminary assessments suggest that structural integrity issues may have been exacerbated by recent heavy rainfall in the region. Maintenance records and construction materials are being scrutinized to determine if negligence played a role.
Flight operations have been severely impacted, with many departures and arrivals delayed or diverted. Passengers scheduled to fly from Terminal 3 are being advised to check with their airlines for the latest information and expect significant delays. The terminal remains closed until further notice as safety inspections continue.
Delhi Airport, one of the busiest in India, handles millions of passengers annually. The collapse has raised serious concerns about the safety standards and maintenance protocols at the facility. “Our priority right now is the safety of our passengers and staff,” said a spokesperson for the airport authority. “We are cooperating fully with investigators and will ensure that such an incident does not happen again.”
As the investigation unfolds, questions about infrastructure resilience and accountability are likely to intensify. The incident adds to the growing list of infrastructure challenges facing India’s rapidly expanding urban centers.
The collapse at one of the country’s premier airports underscores the urgent need for rigorous safety audits and proactive maintenance to safeguard public spaces and prevent such tragedies in the future.