Magisterial inquiry ordered after fatal building collapse in Chandigarh
The Chandigarh Administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the collapse of a two-storey building in Industrial Area, Phase 2, which resulted in two deaths. Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav confirmed that the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (East) has been tasked with investigating the incident to determine the cause of the collapse. The inquiry will be assisted by the building branch of the Estate Office and the engineering department of the Chandigarh Administration.
Incident details and rescue efforts
The building collapsed suddenly on Saturday evening while renovation work was underway. Six people were trapped under the debris. Rescue operations were launched immediately, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) joining the effort. Four individuals were rescued with injuries and taken to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32. Two later succumbed to their injuries. Rescue operations continued for over five hours.
No police case registered yet
Senior Superintendent of Police Kanwardeep Kaur stated that no police case has been registered in connection with the incident. She explained that the families of the two deceased have not filed a complaint, as they themselves were the custodians of the building. No complaint has been received from any other quarter. A case will be registered only if a formal complaint is lodged.
Concerns over unsafe structures
Deputy Commissioner Yadav expressed concerns about the safety of old and dilapidated buildings in the city. He directed the building branch of the Estate Office to identify unsafe residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and take appropriate action. Citizens have been urged to report any unsafe structures to the Administration.
Eyewitness accounts and building status
The building, located near The Fern in Industrial Area, Phase 2, was reported by eyewitnesses to have collapsed suddenly. Officials noted that the structure was old and undergoing renovation at the time of the collapse. The magisterial inquiry will also examine whether proper renovation protocols were followed.
