A recent incident in Nagpur underscored a critical public safety issue: nearly 200 dilapidated buildings across the city pose significant risks. A partial collapse in Ganjipeth last month highlighted the urgency. Despite identifying 240 unsafe structures in pre-monsoon surveys, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has only demolished 41. This leaves 199 buildings, some still occupied, at risk. The Gandhibagh zone alone has 97 dilapidated buildings, with only six addressed. The NMC must enforce vacate orders, provide relocation support, and explore repair options to ensure residents' safety and prevent future tragedies.
A recent incident in Nagpur has highlighted a critical public safety issue: the presence of nearly 200 dilapidated buildings across the city. These crumbling structures pose a significant threat to residents, as evidenced by a partial collapse in Ganjipeth last month.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) conducts pre-monsoon surveys to identify these buildings and issues notices to vacate them. However, a recent fire department survey revealed a gap between identification and action. While the survey identified over 240 such structures across nine zones, only 41 have been demolished. This leaves nearly 199 buildings unaccounted for, some of which are occupied by residents and even house shops.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that some residents continue to live in these buildings despite the dangers. This may be due to challenges in finding alternative housing or a reluctance to leave their homes. In some cases, property owners have contested the NMC's assessments in court, creating legal hurdles that delay action.
The problem is widespread, with the Gandhibagh zone recording the highest number of dilapidated buildings (97), followed by Dharampeth (38) and Mangalwari (29). In Gandhibagh, the zone where the recent collapse occurred, only 6 out of 97 buildings have been addressed through demolition.
The 2020 collapse of a dilapidated house in Sadar that claimed two lives serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of inaction. The NMC must prioritise the safety of its residents by taking decisive steps to address these dangerous structures.
This may involve a multifaceted approach. The NMC may need to consider stricter enforcement measures to ensure compliance with vacate orders. Working with residents to identify alternative housing options and providing support during relocation can be crucial. In some cases, offering financial assistance for repairs to structurally salvageable buildings could be an option.
By taking decisive action to address these dilapidated buildings, Nagpur can create a safer living environment for its residents and prevent future tragedies. The well-being of the city and its people should be the top priority, and a comprehensive strategy is needed to address this critical issue.
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