A tragic incident occurred today, August 15, 2025, in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area, when the roof and part of a wall of a room at the Patte Shah Dargah Sharif suddenly collapsed. According to officials, five people lost their lives and eleven others were rescued from the debris.
The incident happened near Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in a structure adjacent to the main dargah premises. Rescue teams rushed to the spot immediately after receiving distress calls.
VIDEO | Delhi: A portion of the structure at Humayun’s Tomb collapses, and some are feared trapped. More details awaited
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 15, 2025
(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/WEvDcD0TLq
Swift Rescue Efforts Saved Lives
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Service, and local police worked together to pull out trapped victims. Eyewitnesses said the collapse happened without warning, leaving many people buried under rubble.
By afternoon, 11 people had been rescued alive, while the search continued for any remaining victims.
VIDEO | Delhi: A portion of the structure at Humayun’s Tomb collapses, and some are feared trapped.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 15, 2025
Vishal Kumar, an eyewitness, says, “I work at Humayun Tomb. When we heard the noise, my supervisor came running. We called for people and the administration. Slowly, we took out… pic.twitter.com/6keaWYDwSD
Possible Cause: Long-Pending Repairs
Initial reports suggest that the roof had visible cracks for months. The dargah management committee had allegedly requested repairs several times, but the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) — which manages heritage structures in the area — did not grant permission, citing regulatory restrictions.
Locals believe that the lack of timely maintenance led to the disaster. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause, but an investigation has been ordered.
Historic & Religious Importance of the Site
Patte Shah Dargah is located in the historic Hazrat Nizamuddin area, just steps away from Humayun’s Tomb. The site holds deep religious significance for devotees and is also part of Delhi’s rich heritage zone.
Experts say that many such old structures in the area are vulnerable and need urgent attention to prevent similar tragedies.
Authorities Promise Action
Delhi officials have announced a detailed structural safety audit of surrounding buildings. The government has also promised compensation for the families of the victims.
The incident is a grim reminder that heritage conservation must go hand-in-hand with safety, especially in areas where people live, work, and worship daily.