In Ahmedabad, the number of dangerous buildings is rising, particularly in the Kodia area. This increase has led to more incidents of building collapses, sometimes resulting in loss of life. The Municipal Corporation conducts annual checks on these buildings along the Rath Yatra route. Notices are issued, but usually, this is only for the duration of the Yatra. This year, however, the authorities have also begun surveying dangerous buildings outside the Rath Yatra route. They have completed their survey in the Kodia ward, revealing around 900 unsafe structures.
As in previous years, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has issued notices to dangerous buildings along the Rath Yatra route. They have warned that these buildings, including their dilapidated walls and roofs, should not be used during the Yatra. Notices have been sent to approximately 180 dangerous buildings, and their drainage and water connections have been severed. This action is still ongoing.
Ramya Kumar Bhatt, the Deputy Commissioner of the Central Zone, provided this information. He stated that incidents of building collapses have been increasing during the monsoon season and at other times. Therefore, a preliminary list of such buildings is being prepared in all wards, starting with the Kodia ward. The survey in Kodia found about 900 dangerous buildings.
However, this number is not final. Soon, structural reports of these buildings will be prepared. Based on this, a more accurate number of extremely dilapidated and dangerous buildings will be determined. It is possible that there are fewer than 900 unsafe buildings in Kodia. This survey is being conducted in accordance with the election booth list, with help from tax department employees.
The Rath Yatra is a significant Hindu festival that involves the procession of the deities Lord Jagannath, Balram, and Subhadra. It is celebrated in various parts of India, especially in Ahmedabad. The Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad is one of the largest in Gujarat, taking place on the day of Ashadhi Beej according to the Gujarati calendar. The festival has been celebrated for over 140 years in the city.
On the day of the Yatra, the idols of the deities are taken out in large chariots, which are pulled by devotees through the streets. The rituals include a ceremonial bath of the deities before the procession, and thousands of devotees participate, highlighting the festival’s significance.
The rising number of dangerous buildings poses a serious risk, especially during such major public events. The authorities are taking steps to ensure the safety of citizens and participants during the Rath Yatra. This includes not only issuing notices but also physically cutting off connections to unsafe buildings.
In addition to the safety measures for the Yatra, there are ongoing challenges with illegal encroachments in the area. The recent attack on Deputy Commissioner Ramya Bhatt by a mob during a demolition drive shows the tensions surrounding these issues. He was severely injured and is receiving treatment at SVP Hospital.
The Municipal Corporation’s crackdown on illegal structures has faced resistance, leading to violent confrontations. The police are investigating the incident and plan to take strict action against those involved in the attack.
As the Rath Yatra approaches, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of participants and preventing any potential accidents related to unsafe buildings. The community is urged to cooperate with authorities in maintaining public safety during this important cultural event.
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