In a tragic incident early Friday morning, Delhi Airport’s Terminal 1 faced a structural collapse when heavy rainfall caused a portion of the roof to give way. The incident resulted in the loss of one life and left four others injured. Responding swiftly, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu announced compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the deceased’s family and Rs 3 lakh each for the injured, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing the aftermath of the disaster.

The collapsed roof, installed back in 2009, is distinct from the newer terminal inaugurated separately by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Minister Naidu clarified this distinction, emphasizing that immediate measures were taken to ensure no further casualties occurred. Emergency response teams including fire safety personnel, CISF, and NDRF were promptly dispatched to the scene, swiftly securing the area and conducting thorough inspections.

Following the incident, flight operations from Terminal 1 have been suspended until further notice, impacting travel plans for many passengers. The Ministry of Civil Aviation assured the public that alternate arrangements are being made to minimize disruption and ensure the safe operation of flights. The closure underscores ongoing efforts to assess and mitigate risks posed by adverse weather conditions to airport infrastructure across the country.

As investigations continue into the cause of the collapse, authorities remain vigilant to prevent similar incidents in the future. The government’s response, including compensation for victims and efforts to restore normalcy, reflects a commitment to safeguarding public safety amidst challenging circumstances. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructure maintenance and disaster preparedness in ensuring the security and well-being of travelers and airport personnel alike.