Four-storey building tilts in east Delhi's Shahdara; authorities issue notice to vacate

NEW DELHI: A four-storey building in east Delhi’s Bihari Colony, Shahdara, has reportedly tilted, officials said on Friday.According to a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official, the building was vacated with the help of the local SHO, and jacks were installed to support the structure. Wooden poles have also been placed for temporary support.The MCD may declare the building dangerous, following which it will be demolished. The final inspection report is awaited. Sandeep Kapoor, Chairman of Shahdara South Zone, MCD, said, “We are running campaigns in areas with five- to six-storey buildings, many of which are slanted, old, or dilapidated, and pose a threat to life and property if they collapse. These buildings are being inspected, notices are being issued, and they are being sealed.” He added that several such buildings in Bihari Colony had already been vacated due to the risk of collapse. A survey team is expected to revisit the site on Friday to decide on further action such as sealing or demolition. Legal proceedings will also be initiated if necessary. Kapoor further noted that if one building is found dangerous, surrounding structures are also assessed. “If one collapses, it could cause significant damage to nearby buildings. As a precaution, notices have been issued to vacate all such buildings until a final decision is taken,” he said. Visuals from the site showed wooden poles propping up the leaning structure, while a team from Farsh Bazar police station kept people away from the area. “We are requesting everyone to stay away from the area. Officials from the MCD are checking the structure and also pasted notice to vacate the building,” a senior police officer said.