House Collapses in Uttar Pradesh Amid Heavy Rains
BARABANKI, UTTAR PRADESH – A devastating house collapse in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, has left one person dead and four others in the hospital after the structure fell on the sleeping family during a night of relentless rain. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Deviganj village, claiming the life of a 45-year-old man.
The deceased has been identified as Mahesh Kumar, a local labourer. According to officials, the family was asleep when the roof and walls of their kaccha (mud and brick) house, weakened by the incessant downpour, gave way. The weight of the debris buried the five family members instantly.
Frantic Rescue Effort by Villagers and Police
Alerted by a loud crash, neighbours rushed to the scene to find a pile of rubble where the Kumar family’s home once stood. They immediately began a frantic rescue effort, using their bare hands to dig through the debris in a desperate attempt to reach those trapped inside.
Local police and emergency services arrived shortly after to assist. After a harrowing hour-long operation, all five family members were pulled from the wreckage. They were rushed to the district hospital, but Mahesh Kumar was declared dead on arrival.
Survivors Hospitalized, Two in Critical Condition
The four survivors are currently receiving medical treatment. They have been identified as Mahesh’s wife, Sunita Devi (40), and their three children: Priya (16), Rohan (12), and Amit (8).
Hospital sources confirmed that Sunita Devi and her eldest daughter, Priya, are in critical condition. The two younger sons are reported to be in stable condition but remain under observation for potential internal injuries and shock.
Official Response and Compensation Announced
The tragedy highlights the precarious living conditions for many in rural areas, especially during the monsoon season when older, poorly constructed homes become dangerously vulnerable.
District Magistrate Avinash Singh visited the site and met with the survivors at the hospital. “This is a deeply unfortunate and tragic event,” he said. “The administration will provide all possible support to the grieving family. An ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh will be released to the next of kin of the deceased, and we will ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.”
The Chief Minister’s Office has also acknowledged the incident and directed local authorities to survey other dilapidated structures in the region to prevent similar tragedies. The incident, however, remains a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those in vulnerable housing during India’s monsoon season.
