BHOPAL: Uncertainty hangs over the displaced residents of Golden Tower in Thatipur, Gwalior. The five-story building has been tilting dangerously since a pillar got damaged on July 16, forcing the evacuation of half its residents. The situation has worsened with new cracks in two additional pillars.
While people associated with the builder claim that one of the residents used a drill machine near the main pillar to clear waterlogging causing it to tilt, residents are looking forward to a serious action against the builder identified as Mohan Bandil accusing him for poor construction work of the building .
A recent inspection by municipal authorities confirmed the building’s inhabitability. City planner documented the new cracks and declared the building unsafe for occupancy. Repair work is underway, but officials warn that it could be months before the building is deemed secure.
Residents, now displaced, are demanding either a full refund or a new building.
Notably on July 16, the Golden Tower had tilted to one side after a pillar collapsed, causing cracks to develop in many flats. Half of the 27 flats were evacuated in a hurry. Displaced residents are still wandering from door to door. The local residents are planning a large-scale protest soon.
Municipal corporation officials have declared the building extremely dangerous. They cleared that no one will be allowed to move back in until the repair work is completed and the building meets safety standards.
On Saturday, some residents filed a complaint at Thatipur police station, but were advised to report the matter to the Municipal Corporation first.
Residents are seeking refuge in hotels and the homes of friends and relatives. A few have been accommodated by the builder. One of the residents claims that he financed his flat for Rs 30 lakh, and still owes Rs 20 lakh. Residents claim that the builders have connections with politicians and ministers, and therefore he refuses to take responsibility.
