In Hyderabad, the start of the monsoon season has led the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to launch a major safety campaign. This initiative aims to inspect and address the structural safety of buildings throughout the city. A recent survey identified 428 buildings as unsafe, prompting quick actions to prevent potential disasters during the rainy season.
The GHMC has focused on demolishing, repairing, and evacuating unsafe buildings. Out of the identified structures, 131 can be repaired, while 297 are deemed too dangerous to occupy. To prevent incidents during heavy rains or flooding, officials have issued eviction notices for these high-risk buildings.
On Thursday, GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan urged officials to take strong measures to protect people and property. He held a video conference with zonal commissioners and town planning officials to discuss the issues related to old, unsafe buildings.
With early monsoon rains predicted, the commissioner instructed officials to stay alert and implement strategies to prevent damage and save lives. They are tasked with informing families living in unsafe buildings and helping them move to safer locations. Homeowners are discouraged from making temporary repairs, and officials are directed to seize and take action on dangerous structures.
Karnan emphasized the importance of not constructing cellars in these unstable buildings. He instructed officials to ensure the stability of deteriorating structures by issuing notices and, if necessary, demolishing them. Occupants are advised to vacate, and guidance for repairs is provided. Raising awareness among building owners about the risks of staying in hazardous structures is a key part of the strategy.
