Five-storey Gwalior building falls; Golden Tower people left homeless


Uncertainty hangs over the displaced residents of Golden Tower in Thatipur, Gwalior. The five-story building has been tilting dangerously since a pillar was damaged on July 16, forcing the evacuation of half its residents. The situation has worsened with new cracks appearing in two additional pillars.

People associated with the builder claim that one of the residents used a drill machine near the main pillar to clear waterlogging, causing it to tilt. However, residents are demanding serious action against the builder, Mohan Bandil, accusing him of poor construction work.

A recent inspection by municipal authorities confirmed the building's inhabitability. City planners documented the new cracks and declared the building unsafe for occupancy. Repair work is underway, but officials warn it could be months before the building is deemed secure. Residents, now displaced, are demanding either a full refund or a new building.

On July 16, the Golden Tower tilted to one side after a pillar collapsed, causing cracks in many flats. Half of the 27 flats were evacuated in a hurry. Displaced residents are still wandering from door to door. The local residents are planning a large-scale protest soon.

Municipal corporation officials have declared the building extremely dangerous, stating that no one will be allowed to move back in until the repair work is completed and the building meets safety standards. Some residents filed a complaint at Thatipur police station but were advised to report the matter to the Municipal Corporation first.

Residents are seeking refuge in hotels and the homes of friends and relatives, with a few being accommodated by the builder. One resident claims he financed his flat for Rs 3 million and still owes Rs 2 million. Residents allege that the builder has connections with politicians and ministers, allowing him to shirk responsibility. (Source: ET)

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