Dome of Emperor Humayun’s tomb collapses in Delhi, five dead

The dome of Emperor Humayun’s Tomb, a distinctive Mughal architectural marvel and UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi's Nizamuddin, has collapsed. According to NDTV, five people lost their lives in the incident.

The incident took place around 4:30pm on Friday (15 August).

According to the Delhi Fire Service, at least eight people were feared trapped under the debris. Rescue teams later recovered five bodies.

Officials have said that, being a holiday, the tomb was crowded with both local and foreign tourists at the time of the accident.

Eyewitnesses reported that one side of the small green building’s roof suddenly collapsed. Around 15–20 people were inside at the time, including the imam of the dargah.

The cause of the accident is still unclear. It is believed that the collapsed section was 25 to 30 years old, and an investigation is underway to determine the reason.

Authorities suspect that seasonal rains may have weakened the dome’s structure. They are also examining whether poor maintenance or any structural flaws contributed to the collapse.

Constructed in the mid-16th century, the tomb is an outstanding example of Mughal architecture. It is a UNESCO-listed heritage site and houses the tomb of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun.