Most number of India's building collapse incidents happen in Mumbai
Over the past few years, incidents of old buildings collapsing have frequently been recorded in India. However, Mumbai has witnessed the maximum number of structure collapses. Of 13,470 building collapse incidents in India during 2010-15, Mumbai accounted for 1,366 incidents, over 10% of the total. Real estate services firm ANAROCK in a report said several incidents took place due to residents' negligence. Read more!
No actions taken against dilapidated buildings despite warnings
ANAROCK's report says most old buildings in India are never renovated and left dilapidated. Buildings were not refurbished even after residents noticed severe cracks. Despite warnings, no actions were taken, and the structures eventually collapsed. The report comes only days after the crash of the 117-year-old five-storeyed Hussaini building in Mumbai's Bhendi Bazaar killing 33 people and injuring 14.
Building collapse incidents in India
According to the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) data, over 14,000 people died due to dilapidated structure collapses between 2010 and 2015. At least 2,700 people lose their lives every year in various structural breakdowns on an average in India.
Independent auditors must be employed: ANAROCK Chairman
Any building's lifespan depends on several factors, including quality of the construction materials, weather conditions, structural design, and structure's age. ANAROCK Chairman Anuj Puri stated, "Checking all aspects of construction may not be possible for individual residents, the services of an independent auditor must be employed." He added employing such auditors can provide the residents a "primary line of defense" against structural collapses.
