In a tragic incident that has shaken the national capital, a 52-year-old teacher, Parvati Ojha, lost her life while attempting to save others during the building collapse in Delhi. Known affectionately as 'Maa' to her hundreds of students, Ojha's heroic act has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes across the city.
The Incident
The building collapse occurred on Tuesday morning in the Burari area of Delhi. The four-storey structure, which housed a school on the ground floor and residential units above, came down suddenly, trapping dozens of people under the debris. Rescue operations were launched immediately by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities.
Parvati Ojha's Heroic Act
According to eyewitnesses, Parvati Ojha was inside the school when the building began to shake. Instead of rushing to safety, she stayed back to help evacuate the children. She managed to push several students out of the building before the structure collapsed on her. Her body was recovered hours later, still shielding a young child who survived.
Ojha had been teaching at the school for over two decades and was revered by students and parents alike. Many referred to her as 'Maa' because of her nurturing nature and dedication to her students' well-being. Her loss has left a void in the community.
Rescue and Aftermath
The rescue operation continued for over 12 hours, with teams working tirelessly to free those trapped. In total, 15 people were injured, and five lost their lives, including Ojha. The cause of the collapse is under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest structural weaknesses and illegal construction may have been factors.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal visited the site and announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased. He also ordered a thorough probe into the incident and promised strict action against those responsible.
Tributes Pour In
News of Parvati Ojha's bravery spread quickly, and tributes poured in from all corners. Social media was flooded with messages honoring her selflessness. A former student wrote, 'She was not just a teacher; she was our mother. She taught us lessons in life and in death.' The school has decided to rename its library after her.
The incident has also reignited debates about building safety in Delhi, with many calling for stricter enforcement of construction norms. As the city mourns, Parvati Ojha's legacy as a hero and a beloved 'Maa' to hundreds will endure.
