The Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation (DMC) took decisive action on Wednesday, demolishing an illegally constructed four-storey building in the densely populated Loharpatty area. This operation was the direct consequence of a tragic incident last month that claimed the life of a local resident.
Demolition Order Follows Fatal Incident
The demolition drive was initiated after a thorough inspection declared the structure unsafe and illegal. The building was being constructed without the mandatory permissions from local authorities, in clear violation of the Assam Unified Building Construction (Regulation) Bye Laws 2022.
The catalyst for this stern action was the unfortunate death of 52-year-old Salma Begum on November 19. Begum was passing by the construction site in Ward No. 10 when she was fatally struck by falling construction material from the upper floors. This incident prompted an immediate probe by the corporation.
Chronology of Violations and Official Action
DMC Commissioner Jay Vikas issued the final demolition order on Tuesday, emphasizing the imminent danger to public safety. The order stated that the building was structurally unsound and posed a collapse risk at any moment, including during a disaster.
According to DMC records, the G+4 RCC building was being constructed by Mohd Yunus Khan. Following the fatal accident, the premises were immediately sealed. The corporation served a first notice to Khan on November 20, directing him to stop work and produce relevant documents. A second notice followed on November 25 after his initial response was found to be unsatisfactory.
The commissioner's order read, "Whereas, the building is found to be constructed... in an unauthorised manner as well as in total violation of building rules... Its continued existence endangers public safety. In view of the extreme risk posed, it is imperative to demolish the structure immediately."
Public Relief and Call for Vigilance
Local residents of Loharpatty had long raised concerns about the safety hazards posed by the illegal construction. The death of Salma Begum amplified these worries, leading to a significant public outcry demanding accountability and action.
During the demolition, which was conducted under tight security, elderly resident Naseer Hussain expressed a mix of relief and frustration. "This action was necessary, but it shouldn't have taken a tragedy for the authorities to act," he said. "We are relieved that this dangerous structure is finally down, and we hope the DMC continues to monitor illegal construction across the city to prevent another loss of life."
The demolition operation involved specialized teams working methodically in the congested locality. Commissioner Vikas noted that the entire process could take up to 24 hours to complete safely, ensuring no further incidents occurred.
This event highlights the critical importance of adhering to building codes and the severe consequences of negligence. It also underscores the role of civic authorities in enforcing regulations to safeguard citizen lives in urban areas.
