In a recent turn of tragic events, Old Rajinder Nagar, a hub for UPSC aspirants, became the scene of sorrow as heavy rains led to the demise of three diligent students. The incident occurred on July 28, where the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, a renowned coaching institute, was flooded. This tragic flooding incident not only alarmed the public but also brought to light several safety concerns in the area. The heavy downpour overwhelmed the library in the institute’s basement, leading to a catastrophic failure of the single biometric entry and exit system. Sadly, this malfunction resulted in the untimely deaths of three students.
Abhilash Thapliyal, an actor who gained massive popularity for his portrayal of SK Jha in the TVF series ‘Aspirants’, has shared his sorrow and dismay over the unfortunate incident. Thapliyal had spent extensive time in Old Rajinder Nagar during the filming of the show, which closely follows the lives and struggles of UPSC aspirants. The actor, when speaking to a news outlet, revealed, “I owe the success of my character SK sir to all the UPSC aspirants. It is both tragic and unfortunate what has happened in Rajinder Nagar. But what is even more distressing is how the issue has become heavily politicized. It seems politics has stooped to another unprecedented low.”
Delving deeper into the issue, Thapliyal emphasized the omnipresence of man-made tragedies and pointed out that the disasters are not specific to any department, government, state, or location. “Recently, a hoarding crash in Mumbai claimed numerous innocent lives,” he recounted, drawing parallels to the Delhi incident. “While filming in Old Rajinder Nagar, I realized there is an incredibly high population density in these cramped small places. It made me question how many of these places have the required licenses and NOCs. Let this incident be a wake-up call. Authorities and people running such establishments must ensure all safety measures are in place.”
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Thapliyal recalled his own days as a student at Delhi University.
. “I was fortunate enough to live at home with my family. When you’re at home, your problems aren’t solely your own; you have the support of an entire family to rely on. My heart truly goes out to these aspirants who are far away from their homes, managing everything on their own. I hope these students form support groups within their community to be there for each other throughout their challenging UPSC journey,” he expressed with heartfelt compassion.
This incident has sparked considerable outrage among the student community, who are now protesting the negligence and illegal use of basements for educational purposes. According to a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official, actions are being initiated against institutions illegally operating basements in Old Rajinder Nagar. Meanwhile, the local and national discussions revolve around enforcing stringent safety regulations and better infrastructural scrutiny in such densely populated educational hubs.
Thapliyal’s observations about the densely populated, poorly regulated areas echo the pressing need for improved oversight. Old Rajinder Nagar has long been a central point for aspirants, juggling immense academic pressures and living in closely packed accommodations. This tragedy not only underscores the immediate need for stringent safety protocols but also calls for comprehensive urban planning that considers the well-being and safety of the students who flock to such educational centers with dreams of serving the nation.
Old Rajinder Nagar’s infrastructure, a puzzle of narrow lanes and congested spaces, indeed hosts thousands of young minds preparing for one of the nation’s toughest examinations. While their academic focus remains intense, their living conditions often mirror a stark reality of everyday compromises and hidden risks. This incident, tragic as it is, sheds light on the systemic issues requiring urgent redressal.
As measures are being discussed and supposedly implemented against the unauthorized use of basements, the broader narrative seeks to ensure safer educational environments. Implementing rigorous checks, necessary clearances, and bolstering disaster preparedness frameworks are critical steps that need immediate intervention.
In conclusion, this heartfelt expression of grief from Abhilash Thapliyal, coupled with the heightened outcry from the students, aims to drive significant changes in places like Old Rajinder Nagar. While the loss of the three students casts a somber shadow over the academic community, it ignites a collective resolve for ensuring that such tragedies do not repeat. Students should not only have access to quality education but also a secure and supportive environment that sustains their academic endeavors without compromising their safety.
