Civic Body Cracks Down on Hazardous Illegal Basements Post Tragedy

Following the deaths of three IAS aspirants due to flooding at a coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has increased efforts to tackle illegal basements and encroachments over stormwater drains. Three basements have been sealed and several engineers held accountable.

Following the tragic death of three IAS aspirants at Old Rajinder Nagar due to basement flooding from heavy rain, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has ramped up efforts to tackle illegal basements and encroachments over stormwater drains, MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar announced on Monday.

The senior MCD official reported a crackdown on illegal basements posing safety threats, noting that three basements were sealed recently. Kumar stated that encroachments covering stormwater drains, which hinder cleaning efforts, are being demolished.

Additional action includes the termination of a junior engineer and the suspension of an assistant engineer responsible for managing waterlogging issues. So far, police have arrested seven individuals in connection with the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)