Iron rods rained down on cars: Delhi airport roof collapse victims narrate horrific story of lucky escape

Following heavy rainfall of Friday morning, a canopy collapsed at the Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) and it resulted in the death of a cab driver and multiple injuries, severely disrupting flight operations.

Eyewitnesses recounted a near-catastrophe as approximately 100 people were present during the collapse, narrowly escaping harm when the canopy tilted before crashing down. The deceased, identified as Ramesh Kumar (45) from Vijay Vihar, Rohini, had just completed dropping off a passenger when the structure collapsed.

Legal and Technical Investigation

Authorities have registered a case under IPC Sections 304A and 337, focusing on negligence leading to death and endangerment of others' safety. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has initiated a technical investigation through a specialized committee to determine the causes behind the canopy's collapse, originally erected in 2008-09.

Injured Individuals and Rescue Efforts
Among the injured are Santosh Kumar Yadav (28), Dasarath Ahirwar (25), Arvind (34), Sahil Sudan (27), and Yogesh Dhawan (44), including a cab driver, airport staff, and passengers. Three passengers reported minor injuries, while others required medical attention in various hospitals.

Emergency Response and Recovery Operations
The Delhi Fire Service responded promptly with four fire tenders and 20 firefighters, using cutters to extricate the trapped cab driver. Despite efforts, the driver succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at the hospital.

Causes and Airport Response
According to DIAL, the collapse was primarily attributed to persistent heavy rain and strong winds overnight, which weakened the canopy structure. In response, flight operations at Terminal 1 have been temporarily suspended. Airlines have rerouted flights to Terminals 2 and 3 until the affected area is deemed safe for operations.

Support and Compensation
DIAL expressed condolences and announced compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the deceased cab driver's family and Rs 3 lakh each for those who sustained minor injuries. During cleanup, agencies noted signs of rust on some canopy pipes, underscoring the importance of robust maintenance and safety protocols in public infrastructure.

(With inputs from TOI)