Chandigarh, January 5: On Sunday, a big chunk of the iconic Mahfil Building in Sector 17 caved in rather unexpectedly. Happily, people were not found near the structure at the moment of the tragedy, and thereby no injury was reported and lives were saved.
A symbol of Sector 17, a once-famous Mahfil Restaurant lay abandoned and deteriorated for several years. People living in its surroundings and even shopkeepers pointed out the serious concerns about its condition repeatedly.
However, there was no constructive action taken from the authorities concerned.In wake of the incident, local traders and residents have pleaded to the administration to inspect old structures in Sector 17 and its nearby areas right away. They demanded that damaged buildings be repaired or demolished in order to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
The administration took cognizance of the fact and assured to form a committee to investigate and assess the condition of such old buildings. It has raised a serious concern in the minds of people about the safety of such old structures within the city limits, which highlights the urgent need for preventive measures.The Mahfil Building collapse should serve as a great reminder to avoid letting old buildings deteriorate. Such cataclysmic collapses are only seen immediately by the people affected; thus, immediate actions should be taken to ensure public safety in Chandigarh.
