Another disaster waiting to happen in Sector 17?

An unsafe building in Sector 17-B has been left standing for over a decade, despite clear recommendations from technical institutions for its demolition, highlighting glaring official apathy towards public safety.

- Hillary Victor

CHANDIGARH:

The delay in demolition is particularly alarming now, as just two days ago, the Mehfil restaurant building in Sector 17-C collapsed completely after being sealed only a week earlier for safety reasons.

The building at SCO 125-127, Sector 17-B, has been flagged as a significant safety risk since July 1, 2014, when the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM, Central) issued an order for its immediate demolition following a dispute between the owner and lessee.

Yet, more than 10 years later, the building remains intact, with no meaningful action from the administration to remove it, posing a threat to public safety in the high-traffic commercial area.

In its 2014 order, the SDM had stated: "This court hereby directs Ram Bhawan Estates (P) Limited (i.e., the owner) to demolish the unsafe building (i.e., SCO 125-126-127, Sector 17-B) in the interest of public safety without any delay. Alternatively, the Estate Office is also directed to coordinate with the owner to ensure the building is demolished without delay after following due process."