Delhi, July 11, 2025 – A devastating incident unfolded in the early hours of Friday in North Delhi’s bustling Azad Market, where a building collapse claimed the life of 46-year-old Manoj Sharma, a dedicated worker who had been employed at a local shop for nearly three decades. The collapse, which occurred around 2:00 AM in the Tokri Walan area near Pul Mithai, Bara Hindu Rao, has raised serious concerns about structural safety, urban infrastructure, and the impact of ongoing metro construction in the vicinity. Authorities have launched an investigation, and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh for Sharma’s family, while questions linger about accountability and prevention.
The Incident: A Sudden Collapse
At approximately 1:56 AM on July 11, 2025, a distress call alerted the Delhi Fire Services to a catastrophic building collapse in the Azad Market area. The structure, described by various reports as either a two- or three-storey commercial building, housed multiple shops on the ground floor and godowns (storage areas) on the upper levels. These shops, integral to the vibrant Azad Market, primarily dealt in bags and canvas cloth, catering to the daily needs of local traders and customers. The building’s sudden collapse sent shockwaves through the community, triggering panic in the densely populated commercial hub.
Rescue teams, including the Delhi Police, Fire Brigade, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were swiftly deployed to the site. Amid the debris, they discovered the body of Manoj Sharma, also known as Pappu, a 45- or 46-year-old employee at shop number 7A, owned by Gulshan Mahajan. Sharma, who hailed from Uttar Pradesh, was trapped under the rubble and was rushed to Hindu Rao Hospital. Tragically, he was declared dead upon arrival, marking a somber moment for his family, colleagues, and the Azad Market community.
The collapse also caused collateral damage, with a truck parked in front of the building reported to have been severely damaged. While initial reports suggested concerns about additional individuals being trapped, rescue operations confirmed that no other casualties were found, though the possibility of others being buried under the debris was initially feared.
Manoj Sharma: A Life of Dedication
Manoj Sharma was a long-time fixture in Azad Market, having worked at shop number 7A for approximately 30 years. Described as a loyal and hardworking employee, Sharma’s life was intertwined with the daily rhythm of the market, where he contributed to the operations of a shop dealing in bags and canvas cloth. His death has left a void in the close-knit community of shopkeepers and workers who knew him as a reliable colleague and friend. Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia confirmed Sharma’s long tenure at the shop, underscoring the personal loss felt by those who worked alongside him.
Sharma’s story resonates as a stark reminder of the human toll of structural failures. As a worker from Uttar Pradesh, he was likely among the many migrant laborers who form the backbone of Delhi’s commercial markets. His dedication over three decades highlights the often-overlooked contributions of such workers, who sustain the city’s economic vibrancy but are vulnerable to the risks posed by aging infrastructure and rapid urban development.
Investigation and Accountability
Authorities have registered a case to investigate the cause of the collapse, with initial reports suggesting the building may have been marked as unsafe prior to the incident. The police, under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Raja Banthia, are examining factors such as structural integrity, construction quality, and the potential impact of nearby metro tunnelling. The DMRC’s involvement is particularly significant, as public infrastructure projects are expected to adhere to stringent safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.
The collapse raises broader questions about urban planning in Delhi, where rapid development often outpaces safety considerations. Aging buildings, combined with the stress of nearby construction, create a volatile environment for workers and residents. Community members and shopkeepers in Azad Market have expressed anxiety over structural safety, calling for swift relief and clear answers.
Community and Official Response
The tragedy has elicited a strong response from both the community and officials. Rescue operations were promptly initiated, with the Delhi Fire Services, police, and NDRF working together to clear debris and ensure no additional victims were trapped. The DMRC’s announcement of ₹5 lakh as ex-gratia compensation reflects an immediate effort to support Sharma’s family, though it does little to address the systemic issues that led to the collapse.
Local residents and shopkeepers have voiced concerns about the safety of other buildings in the area, particularly given the ongoing metro construction. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for regular structural assessments and stricter enforcement of building codes in Delhi’s commercial districts. Social media posts on X reflect the public’s shock and grief, with many calling for accountability and preventive measures to avoid future tragedies.
A Call for Change
The death of Manoj Sharma is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by workers in Delhi’s commercial hubs. As investigations continue, the focus must shift to preventing such incidents through rigorous safety standards, regular inspections, and accountability for infrastructure projects. The DMRC’s probe will be closely watched, as will the actions of local authorities in addressing the structural risks in Azad Market and similar areas.
Last Updated on Saturday, July 12, 2025 6:37 am by Mahitha Ventrapati
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