KMC to conduct structural stability test of Tangra building

Kolkata: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) will execute a structural stability test of the under-construction building at Tangra which leaned towards another on Wednesday while a ‘dangerous building’ notice has been slapped asking residents of the adjacent building, which too has tilted, to evacuate the property.

An under-construction building at 11/2 Christopher Road was undergoing construction work. As learnt,the exteriors were completed but interior work was afoot. The entry to the building has been sealed. No residents had shifted into this building yet.

KMC sources said that even as a partial demolition order was given, engineers have been directed to conduct a structural stability test to check if it needs to be demolished completely.

Meanwhile, the adjacent building too has leaned towards the building concerned. Inhabitants were served a notice to evacuate it within three days. Power supply has been disconnected, water connection will be snapped once the residents move out. Several of them told the media that they have nowhere to go but admitted that they are oblivious of any sanction plan for the structure. Locals said these were illegally constructed. Mayor Firhad Hakim has already directed to issue show cause notice to the licensed building surveyor (LBS) concerned.

The Mayor said there are about 30 such tilted buildings in the city. Most were a result of faulty engineering. He said such a tilt develops due to lack of proper piling work which ensures deep foundation necessary for multi storeyed buildings. Engineers said soil test was mandatory before starting construction work as that would help determine the load bearing capacity.

With two buildings precariously leaning towards each other, locals are in a panic fearing any of them may collapse. The perimeter of the structures has been secured while nets will be used to cover the building during demolition work.