Dozens of students were trapped after a five-storey residential building collapsed in the Indian capital Delhi on Sunday. 

Online video of the incident showed rescue teams racing to save people trapped inside the rubble as bystanders moved to clear debris and ease rescue operations.

The residential building collapsed into a hostel that housed university students.

Multiple reports said 50 people were inside the building in the Satya Niketan neighbourhood of south-west Delhi when it collapsed 

Scores of students staying in the hostel were inside their rooms at the time of the collapse as there were no classes on Sunday.

While four people were killed, several others suffered injuries and were taken to the hospital.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said officials evacuated an adjacent building immediately as a precaution.

“Every possible effort is being made to safely rescue those trapped. No one will be spared,” Ms Gupta said.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident and prayed for the injured.

“The collapse of a building at Satya Niketan, Delhi is distressing. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones,” Mr Modi stated. “Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are working at the site and assisting those affected in the mishap.”

The police launched a probe and searched for the building’s owner.