Dargah Wall Collapse Near Humayun’s Tomb Delhi

On August 15, 2025, a tragic incident occurred near one of Delhi's most famous heritage sites, Humayun's Tomb. The wall and roof of a dargah, known as Patte Shah Dargah in the Nizamuddin area, suddenly collapsed, killing six people and injuring five others. The collapse happened around 3:30 to 3:55 pm, just as many people had gathered for Friday prayers and were also seeking shelter from heavy rains.

The injured were immediately rushed to hospitals, including AIIMS Trauma Centre and Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital, where sadly, some later succumbed to their injuries. Among the deceased were three women and an 80-year-old man. The rescue operation was swift, with Delhi Police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire services, and local volunteers working together to rescue 11 people trapped under the rubble. However, the death toll left the community shocked and grieving.

This dargah is adjacent to the historic Humayun's Tomb complex, which dates back to the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fortunately, the main tomb itself was not damaged. The collapse was limited to two adjoining rooms of the dargah—a resting room and an imam’s room—that were reportedly in a dilapidated condition. Heavy rainfall over the previous days further weakened the structure, leading to the collapse when around 15 people were inside taking shelter from rain.

Locals describe chaotic scenes as the roof gave way first, followed by the fall of a wall, leaving worshippers trapped with no quick way out. Some survivors described hearing screams and feeling helpless as the structure came down. The incident has raised serious concerns about the maintenance and safety of heritage sites and the adjoining structures that are still actively used by communities.

Authorities have registered a case under sections related to negligent conduct and causing death by negligence. Investigations are ongoing to determine responsibility. Civic agencies and heritage conservation bodies have been alerted to review the structural safety of similar heritage-linked buildings. Conservation experts clarified that efforts are needed to maintain the heritage precincts not just for tourism but also to ensure the safety of those who live or worship there.

From a broader perspective, this tragedy highlights the challenge of balancing heritage conservation with the daily needs of communities. Places like Patte Shah Dargah remain vital cultural and spiritual centers, but infrastructure in and around them must be carefully maintained. Experts and locals alike suggest regular inspections and urgent repairs to prevent such accidents, especially during monsoon seasons when old buildings face extra strain.

While the tragedy deeply saddens many, it also calls for urgent attention by authorities to protect Delhi’s heritage sites and their surrounding communities better. It is a reminder that preserving history involves not just the bricks and stones but also the lives of people connected to them every day. The incident marks a somber moment on India's Independence Day, underscoring the value of safety, care, and vigilance at historic and community sites across the country.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies