'Evacuate immediately'

MCD asks residents of 38 'dangerous' buildings in east Delhi to leave following Monday's tragedy, without any arrangements for rehabilitation

After being blamed for the collapse of a multi-storey building in Lalita Park area of east Delhi on Monday that led to heavy casualties, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is now trying to pull up its socks.


In no man's land: (Left) Residents of the collapsed building are putting
up in a tent at a field in Lalita Park area of Laxmi Nagar in east Delhi

Waking up to the threat posed by unauthorised constructions in the Capital, the MCD has asked the occupants of 38 'dangerous' buildings in the east Delhi area to evacuate immediately.

"During a survey, basements of at least 38 buildings were found to be waterlogged. We have issued them notices to vacate their houses immediately for their own safety," said Deep Mathur, official spokesperson, MCD.
On the basis of a survey carried out in Lalita Park and adjoining colonies, it was found that Yamuna water had entered into basements of many buildings. "The water might have seeped into the foundation of the buildings, thereby posing danger to the structures. Owners and residents of these buildings have been served notices to vacate buildings at the earliest," said an MCD official on the condition of anonymity.

There is only the small matter of the rehabilitation of those affected that the civic agency seems to have overlooked.u00a0

"We have just asked them to vacate their respective houses as it is not at all safe to stay there. MCD is not making any arrangements for their accommodation," said Yogendra Chandolia, Chairman, Standing Committee, MCD.

As per the civic agency officials, a large number of people living in these buildings are labourers working in neighbouring areas. More than 100 families are living in these building which includes children and women.
"More than 200 children are living in these buildings. But, sadly there is no arrangement for them," said an MCD official on the condition of anonymity.

According to sources, the civic agency is doing this to save itself from allegations and the blames.
"Had it been a case involving middle class families, then the MCD's position would have been different," added the official. Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner of Delhi government is organising relief arrangements for those affected by the notices.