80-year-old woman dies as roof collapses in Meerut

An 80-year-old woman was killed after the roof of a room in a house collapsed during heavy rain in the Amir Garden area under Lisari Gate police station on Tuesday morning

An 80-year-old woman was killed after the roof of a room in a house collapsed during heavy rain in the Amir Garden area under Lisari Gate police station on Tuesday morning. Her granddaughter sustained minor injuries in the incident and was admitted to hospital as a precaution.

The deceased was identified as Zaitoon. She was inside the house with her granddaughter when the roof suddenly caved in at around 10 am, trapping her under the debris. Local residents rushed to the spot after hearing a loud noise and began removing the rubble. After considerable effort, they rescued Zaitoon and her granddaughter Nazma and rushed them to a hospital.

Doctors declared Zaitoon dead on arrival. Nazma, who suffered minor injuries was admitted for treatment. Her condition was stated to be out of danger.

According to preliminary information, the roof of one of the two rooms in the house belonging to Nasir, a resident of Amir Garden, collapsed suddenly. The house was reportedly constructed around 15 years ago.

After receiving information about the collapse, Lisari Gate police reached the spot and inspected the site. Officers also spoke to local residents to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Kotwali circle officer Sangram Singh said the preliminary investigation indicated that heavy rainfall could have caused the roof to collapse. Police are conducting further inquiries.

Residents said dilapidated buildings should be identified and surveyed before the situation becomes dangerous. They urged authorities to take timely preventive measures against houses that could pose a threat to residents, particularly during the rainy season.