In response to the tragic roof collapse at Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International Airport, which claimed the life of a 45-year-old cab driver and injured eight others, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has announced a comprehensive structural audit of all airports in India.
"We will conduct a structural preliminary inspection at all airports to ensure that such incidents do not recur. Reports have been requested from all airports within 2-5 days, after which necessary measures will be implemented," said Naidu..
The collapse, which occurred around 5 am on Friday, led to the immediate closure and evacuation of Terminal 1, with all flight operations being redirected to Terminals 2 and 3.
Naidu expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and assured the injured were receiving appropriate medical care.
In the wake of the incident, the Civil Aviation Ministry has established a war room to manage refunds and alternate flights for affected passengers.
Naidu guaranteed refunds within seven days or alternative flights for those whose journeys were disrupted.
"Terminal 1 is completely closed and evacuated. Flights have been shifted to Terminals 2 and 3. Passengers affected by cancellations are being offered refunds or alternate flights. We have issued a circular to ensure refunds are processed within seven days," Naidu added.
The minister also noted that a circular has been sent to airlines, instructing them not to increase ticket prices in light of the incident. "When such incidents occur, airfares tend to rise. We have directed airlines to maintain current ticket prices," he stated.
Naidu criticized the opposition Congress for allegedly spreading false information and politicising the tragedy. "It is disheartening that the opposition is using this incident for political gain. They have falsely claimed that this terminal was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi. In reality, the collapsed building is an older structure from 2009. Using this tragedy to attack the government sets a poor precedent," he said.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which operates the airport, reported that the roof at the old departure forecourt of Terminal 1 partially collapsed, possibly due to heavy rainfall and strong winds.
A technical committee has been formed to investigate the exact cause of the collapse.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has announced compensation of ₹20 lakh for the family of the deceased and ₹3 lakh for those with minor injuries. The police have registered a case on charges of causing death by negligence.
In addition to the structural audits, the ministry's immediate actions include setting up war rooms at Terminals 2 and 3 to assist affected passengers and ensure smooth operations during the closure of Terminal 1.
"We have placed officers in the war rooms to manage the situation and provide support to passengers," Naidu said.
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