East Delhi: Panic gripped B-Block of Pandav Nagar, under the Mandawali police station area of East Delhi, after cracks reportedly appeared in two residential buildings during excavation work at a nearby construction site. The affected structures are four storeys high, raising concerns about their safety and prompting residents to leave their homes in haste.
According to local residents, heavy machinery was being used to excavate the site for a new building when vibrations were reportedly felt in the neighbouring houses. Residents subsequently noticed cracks in the walls, triggering fears that the structures could sustain further damage. Families rushed outside, leaving their belongings behind amid uncertainty over the condition of their homes.
Residents Evacuated as Cracks Raise Safety Concerns
Residents said the suspected movement of the buildings during the excavation work caused alarm in the neighbourhood. Once cracks became visible, concerns grew over the possibility of further structural damage.
Given the situation, both residential buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The incident has raised questions about the potential impact of excavation near existing structures and the safety measures adopted during construction.
Police and MCD Teams Reach the Spot
Following the incident, Delhi Police and a team from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) reached the location. The buildings were vacated as a precaution, and the civic body issued a notice at the site.
Residents are now awaiting a detailed assessment by the concerned authorities to determine the condition of the buildings and establish the reasons behind the cracks. The findings are also expected to help clarify whether the ongoing excavation contributed to the damage and whether adequate precautions were taken during the construction work.
Soni Family Seeks Government Assistance
The incident has caused considerable anxiety among the affected residents, including the Soni family. Families who had been living in these houses with their children now face uncertainty over the safety of their homes and their immediate living arrangements.
The affected residents have appealed to the government and relevant authorities for assistance. They have called for a technical inspection of the buildings, an assessment of the damage and appropriate measures to ensure their safety. They have also sought support for families affected by the incident.
Who Will Be Held Responsible if Negligence Is Established?
The incident has brought the safety of excavation work in densely populated residential areas into focus. Residents want the authorities to investigate whether construction activities were carried out with adequate safeguards to protect neighbouring buildings.
The precise condition of the affected structures and the cause of the cracks remain to be established through a technical assessment. The findings will be crucial in determining the extent of the damage, identifying any lapses and deciding what further action may be necessary to protect residents and nearby properties.
