Dome Collapses at Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi: Ten Feared Trapped

Historic Site Faces Crisis After Section of Dome Collapses, Triggering Emergency Rescue Operation

A section of the dome at Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area collapsed on Friday evening, prompting urgent response from emergency services. According to the Delhi Fire Services, an emergency call was made at 4:30 PM, reporting that approximately eight to nine people may be trapped under the debris.

Swift Emergency Deployment

• Five fire engines were dispatched promptly to the site to aid in rescue operations.
• The incident occurred in a dense, tourist-frequented area within a UNESCO World Heritage site, raising serious concerns about public safety and heritage preservation.

About Humayun’s Tomb

• Constructed in the mid-16th century, Humayun’s Tomb is the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Humayun and a milestone in Indo-Islamic architecture.
• As the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent, it served as a prototype for later Mughal marvels such as the Taj Mahal.

Why the Collapse Raises Alarm

• The site’s historical and cultural significance makes any structural damage especially critical.
• Aging infrastructure, restoration challenges, and conservation limitations have previously been highlighted as concerns.

Summary

The collapse at Humayun’s Tomb is a stark reminder of the urgent need for heritage preservation and effective emergency preparedness. As rescue efforts continue, attention must turn to safeguarding such irreplaceable monuments from further deterioration—and ensuring the safety of all who visit or work in their vicinity.