Ahmedabad House Collapse Claims Life of Elderly Woman, Injures Two in Gheekanta Area
A tragic incident unfolded in Ahmedabad on Wednesday when a residential house collapsed during drainage work in the city's Gheekanta area, resulting in the death of a 62-year-old woman and injuries to two others. The collapse has sparked allegations of civic negligence from local residents, who claim that inadequate safety measures during municipal excavation led to the disaster.
Details of the Collapse and Rescue Operations
The collapse occurred at Navtad ni Pol, near Mota Hamam, where a residential structure gave way, trapping three individuals under the debris. Fire brigade officials reported receiving an alert shortly after the incident and promptly dispatched two rescue teams to the site. "Three persons were found trapped under the rubble. They were rescued within minutes and shifted to Civil Hospital," stated a fire officer. Unfortunately, one of the injured women, identified as Pushpa Panchal, later succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
Police and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) officials arrived at the scene as rescue operations were underway. According to locals, the ongoing drainage line excavation and drilling work adjacent to the house destabilised the structure, causing it to collapse. In addition to the residents, two municipal labourers working at the site sustained injuries, while another woman inside the house was also hurt.
Structural and Environmental Factors
Officials revealed that the collapsed structure was over a century old and situated in a densely populated pol with narrow lanes. "Work was carried out close to the building when the house collapsed," an AMC official explained, highlighting the precarious conditions. The age and location of the building likely contributed to its vulnerability during the excavation activities.
Response and Safety Measures
Senior police officials, including the DCP Zone 2, visited the spot to assess the situation. To prevent further risks to neighbouring houses, AMC's estate department and disaster management teams began removing debris. As a precautionary measure, police cordoned off the area and restricted public movement within the pol, ensuring safety in the aftermath of the collapse.
Community Outcry and Demands for Accountability
Residents have voiced strong concerns, demanding accountability for the incident. They allege that proper safety measures were not implemented during the drainage work, pointing to potential negligence by civic authorities. This incident underscores the need for stricter adherence to safety protocols in densely populated urban areas, especially during construction and excavation projects that could compromise structural integrity.
The tragedy in Ahmedabad's Gheekanta area serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with urban development and maintenance work. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future through enhanced safety standards and community oversight.
