Digital News Guru Punjab Desk:
On December 21, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in Mohali’s Sohana village, Punjab, where a multi-story building collapsed, leading to significant loss of life and raising concerns about construction practices and safety regulations in urban India.
Mohali: Incident Overview
The building, which housed a gym in the basement and had four floors above, collapsed on Saturday evening. Rescue operations commenced immediately, involving teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and local authorities.
Despite their efforts, two individuals lost their lives: a 20-year-old woman from Himachal Pradesh and a man from Haryana’s Ambala. Several others were injured, and there were initial fears of more individuals trapped under the debris.
Causes of the Collapse
Preliminary investigations suggest that the collapse resulted from unauthorized excavation work on an adjacent plot. The building’s owners, Parwinder Singh and Gagandeep Singh, were reportedly conducting excavation without the necessary permissions, which likely compromised the structural integrity of the neighboring building. Both have been booked under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, pertaining to culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Rescue teams worked tirelessly through the night, employing heavy machinery to clear debris and search for survivors. Medical teams and ambulances were on standby to provide immediate assistance to the injured. Local hospitals, including Civil Hospital, Fortis, Max, and Sohana Hospital, were alerted to handle casualties. The district administration also set up a control room to coordinate rescue operations and disseminate information.
Government Response
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured strict action against those responsible. He emphasized the need for adherence to construction norms to prevent such tragedies in the future. The state government has pledged support to the affected families and is closely monitoring the situation.
Implications and Concerns
This incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to building regulations and obtaining proper permissions before undertaking construction activities. Unauthorized excavations and structural modifications can have catastrophic consequences, endangering lives and property. It also highlights the need for stringent enforcement of building codes and regular inspections to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
The Mohali building collapse is a tragic reminder of the potential dangers posed by negligent construction practices. As urbanization continues to accelerate in India, it is imperative for authorities, builders, and citizens to prioritize safety and adhere to established regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
You May Also Read: Germany’s Christmas Market Attack: 5 Dead, 7 Indians Among Hundreds Injured
