Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu addressed reporters today regarding the tragic roof collapse at Delhi airport’s terminal 1, which claimed one life and injured six others. Describing it as a “very serious incident,” he assured that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) would conduct a thorough investigation.
The collapse, involving the canopy and a large metal beam in the pick-up and drop area, occurred amidst heavy rain this morning. As a safety measure, operations from terminal 1 were suspended, with affected passengers promised full refunds for cancelled flights.
Responding to concerns about rust on the beams, Minister Naidu emphasized it was premature to speculate, noting ongoing checks mandated for the airport administration. Both the ministry and DGCA will conduct separate investigations.
Terminal 1, constructed in 2008-09 under private contractors contracted by GMR, saw sharp criticism from political leaders. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra attributed the incident to alleged corruption and negligence during the Modi government’s tenure.
Minister Naidu clarified that while PM Narendra Modi inaugurated another building, not terminal 1, misinformation was spread. He pointed out that the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, not Modi’s, oversaw the construction and inauguration of the affected canopy.
The investigation into the collapse will continue as authorities work to ascertain the causes and ensure accountability for the tragic incident at one of India’s busiest airports.
Nithin Rosh 
Nisham Ismail