A potential major accident was averted on Friday in Jaipur's historic Walled City area after a dilapidated three-storey building suddenly tilted forward and developed deep cracks in its walls. Local residents alerted the authorities after noticing the condition of the structure, following which police, Civil Defence and Municipal Corporation teams reached the site and safely evacuated all occupants as a precaution.
According to the administration, the building was at risk of collapsing at any time. As a precautionary measure, the surrounding area was secured and public movement was temporarily restricted.
The incident occurred in the Tikkigran locality under the Galta Gate police station area in Jaipur's Walled City. Authorities said the three-storey building, constructed on an area of about 30 square yards, suddenly developed cracks and tilted forward. Local residents informed the administration immediately after noticing the deterioration in the building's condition.
Police and Civil Defence personnel reached the site without delay and launched a rescue operation.
During the operation, approximately 40 people belonging to around eight families were safely evacuated from the building. The administration allowed residents limited time to remove essential belongings before the building was completely vacated.
Officials said no casualties were reported as all occupants were shifted to safety in time. The affected families have been advised to make alternative accommodation arrangements for the time being.
Considering the unstable condition of the building, police erected barricades in all three lanes surrounding the structure. Local residents and passersby were prevented from approaching the building.
Police officials appealed to the public not to cross the security barricades, stating that the structure had become extremely weak and remained at risk of collapse.
Residents of the locality said the building had been in a dilapidated condition for a long time. According to local residents, despite its condition, a large number of tenants were living in the building.
Some residents claimed that more than 40 people were residing in the building, increasing the potential risk of an accident. They also urged the administration to conduct periodic inspections of old and dilapidated buildings.
The building owner, Rehana Sultana, said the property came into her possession around two years ago following a family property division. She said she does not live in the building and resides in another locality.
She also claimed that only five to six people were living in the building. However, local residents maintained that the number of occupants was significantly higher. The administration is verifying the actual occupancy.
Civil Defence personnel remain deployed at the site while experts continue assessing the structural condition of the building to enable immediate action if required.
The administration has also appealed to nearby residents to remain alert and follow all safety instructions.
Following the incident, the Municipal Corporation issued a formal notice to the building owner. The notice directs that a technical inspection of the structure be conducted within 24 hours under the supervision of a qualified engineer and that necessary repairs or safety measures be undertaken.
The Municipal Corporation stated that if the required action is not taken within the stipulated time, it will exercise its legal and administrative powers.
The administration said prompt action by police, Civil Defence and the Municipal Corporation ensured that no loss of life occurred. The area has been secured as a precaution.
Experts will now carry out a detailed structural assessment of the building. Based on the report, authorities will decide whether the structure can be repaired or will have to be demolished. Meanwhile, the administration has urged the public to stay away from the restricted area and comply with safety instructions.
