Following the tragic deaths of three students due to severe waterlogging at a coaching institute in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi Minister Atishi announced on Wednesday that the interim inquiry report from the MCD has been received.
Atishi explained that the report revealed two significant issues: the drain in the area was obstructed by coaching centres, preventing proper water drainage, and the library established within the coaching centre was illegal. “The interim inquiry report, which has been submitted by the MCD, indicates that the drain—responsible for the waterlogging—was encroached upon by the coaching centres, which blocked the water flow. Additionally, the setup of libraries and classes in the basement of the coaching centre was entirely illegal. The building department had only authorized the basement for storage or parking. The complete report will be available in seven days,” she said.
She also noted that the MCD had initiated the inquiry based on the preliminary findings. “The junior engineer responsible for maintaining the drain and preventing encroachment has been permanently terminated. The assistant engineer, tasked with ensuring proper drain function and adherence to regulations, has been suspended. An investigation into both officers is underway,” Atishi added.
Further action will be taken based on the forthcoming magisterial report. “The magisterial report is expected in six days, and those found responsible will face consequences. Upon learning of the encroachment and resulting waterlogging, Mayor Shailey Oberoi instructed the demolition of all coaching centres that had encroached on the drains,” Atishi stated.
Additionally, Atishi revealed that 30 coaching centres, including Drishti IAS Centre and Sanskruti Academy, have been sealed for operating libraries in their basements. Notices have also been issued to 200 other institutions. “Coaching centres in Rajendra Nagar, Preet Vihar, Mukherjee Nagar, and Laxmi Nagar, such as Drishti IAS Centre and Sanskruti Academy, are among those sealed. Another 200 centres have been notified,” she said.
Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi, in response to the incident, assured that the students’ demands will be addressed and a meeting will be arranged with them. She expressed condolences to the families of the deceased students. “In the basement incident, it was found that there was only one entry and exit route. We extend our condolences to the families. We will meet with the students to discuss their demands and subsequently introduce new regulations in the Delhi Assembly,” Oberoi stated.
Oberoi also emphasized that the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will be required to comply with the new rules and regulations, with strict actions to be taken against those found guilty. “The MCD must adhere to all new regulations. We will conduct a thorough review of basement usage and enforce strict penalties for any violations. No irresponsibility will be tolerated,” she concluded.
