ConstructionSafety – Probe Reveals Financial Motive Behind Fatal Saket Building Collapse

ConstructionSafety – Authorities investigating the deadly building collapse near Saket Metro station have uncovered fresh details suggesting that unauthorized construction activity and substantial rental earnings may have played a significant role in the incident. Officials examining the case claim the owner of the structure was allegedly pursuing further expansion plans despite concerns over compliance with building regulations.

Rental Income Emerges as Key Focus of Investigation

According to information gathered during the inquiry, 71-year-old Karamveer, who has been arrested in connection with the collapse, reportedly informed investigators that the four-storey commercial property generated nearly ₹10 lakh in monthly rental income. Sources indicate that each floor had been leased for around ₹2.5 lakh per month, making the building a significant source of revenue.

Investigators are now examining financial records and tenancy arrangements as part of efforts to understand the motivations behind the continued development of the property.

Additional Floors Were Reportedly Under Construction

The ongoing investigation has found that construction work was underway on two more floors when the structure collapsed on May 30. Officials believe plans for the expansion had already progressed beyond the planning stage.

Sources familiar with the probe said discussions had reportedly taken place with potential investors and buyers regarding the proposed additions. Authorities suspect that once completed, the extra floors could have generated an estimated ₹5 lakh in additional monthly income.

Evidence Recovered During Debris Removal

As rescue and clearance operations continued, investigators recovered multiple electricity meters from the site. These meters were reportedly registered in the owner’s name and may serve as important evidence in determining ownership and responsibility related to the building.

Officials believe the recovered materials could help establish a clearer timeline of occupancy and construction activities associated with the property.

Statements Sought From Tenants and Occupants

Police have also started reaching out to individuals and businesses that occupied space within the building. Notices are being issued to gather information about the property’s construction history, occupancy levels, and any indications of structural concerns before the collapse occurred.

Investigators are particularly interested in learning whether residents, employees, or tenants had observed cracks, unusual vibrations, or other warning signs that could indicate weakening structural integrity.

Questions Raised Over Building Approvals

One of the major developments in the case is the apparent absence of an approved building plan. Sources involved in the investigation said authorities have not yet located documentation confirming that the structure was constructed in accordance with sanctioned plans.

If officials determine that required approvals were missing or that building regulations were violated, legal responsibility may extend beyond the owner. Individuals associated with the design, construction, or approval process could also face scrutiny.

Search Continues for Absconding Builder

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to locate the builder identified as Manish, who remains untraceable. Investigators have reportedly tracked his last known location to Dehradun and have dispatched a police team to pursue further leads.

Authorities believe his testimony could provide critical insights into the construction process, permissions obtained for the project, and financial transactions connected to the development.

Multi-Angle Investigation Underway

The collapse has prompted a wide-ranging investigation covering construction practices, regulatory compliance, and the actions of those responsible for managing the building. Officials are examining whether negligence, unauthorized construction, or violations of safety standards contributed to the disaster.

The multi-storey commercial structure housed a coaching centre, offices, and several cafés before it collapsed on the evening of May 30 near Saket Metro station. The tragedy claimed six lives and left eight others injured, triggering an extensive rescue operation and raising fresh concerns about building safety and enforcement of construction norms in urban areas.