Indira Gandhi International Airport: Roof collapse destroys cars in Delhi

Updated 32 minutes ago

Following heavy rains, a roof collapsed at Delhi airport. One person was killed and four others were injured.

Online videos show huge roof pillars crashing into cars parked along the airport’s Terminal 1.

All departures from the terminal have been temporarily suspended and check-in counters have been closed.

The incident occurred at 05:00 (Thursday, 23:30 GMT), authorities said.

Rescue operations are underway at the airport and the injured are being treated in hospitals.

The Indian Aviation Authority has ordered airlines to rebook their passengers on alternative flights or offer them a refund.

Federal Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has announced compensation of Rs 2 million (US$24,000 or £19,000) to the families of the deceased and Rs 300,000 to the injured.

He also told reporters that the situation was under control and that inspections were underway to prevent further incidents, adding that airports with additional construction across the country were also being inspected.

The incident sparked criticism on social media, with many users pointing out that the terminal underwent a major renovation costing billions of rupees in March – a month before the start of the recent general elections – and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

However, Mr Kinjarapu later said that the collapsed part was not part of the renovated area.

“I want to clarify that the building inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi is on the other side and the building that collapsed here is an old building and was inaugurated in 2009,” he said.

Heavy rains have been pelting Delhi since Thursday, providing much-needed respite from the scorching temperatures that have prevailed in the Indian capital since April.

However, this resulted in flooding and significant traffic congestion in the city.

Videos shared on social media showed people wading through knee-deep water and cars and buses partially submerged in subways.

The heavy rain also led to delays and cancellations of flights.

The Indian Meteorological Department predicts that the city will continue to experience “heavy to very heavy rainfall” over the weekend.