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Authorities in Margao have launched structural assessments on 21 buildings marked unsafe, following a series of collapses and long-standing neglect. A joint team from Goa Engineering College, PWD, and the Municipal Council recently inspected four structures, including commercial properties, revealing immediate risks to public safety. Despite previous warnings and demolition orders issued as far back as 2018, enforcement has been largely absent. Now, with pressure mounting, the administration is working to fast-track technical evaluations and take action, aiming to prevent further mishaps caused by neglected and deteriorating buildings.
In a long-overdue move, structural inspections have commenced on 21 buildings across Margao that have been deemed unsafe by the district authorities. The initiative, involving a joint task force from Goa Engineering College, Public Works Department (PWD), and the Margao Municipal Council, follows recent structural failures and increasing public alarm over safety. Advertisement
During the past week, four buildings from the identified list were surveyed by engineers. These include commercial properties situated on Erasmo Sequeira Road and Lohia Maidan Road. Teams not only reviewed the condition of the buildings but also engaged with owners and tenants, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Some structures inspected continue to house businesses despite visible signs of damage and earlier warnings. Officials were reportedly shocked at the lack of prior enforcement, considering how evidently hazardous these buildings had become.
The move comes in the wake of incidents involving collapsed parapets, which triggered demolition orders for two properties. However, with the Margao Municipal Council lacking the technical capacity to carry out comprehensive evaluations, the Collector directed the PWD to take the lead. The urgency to complete safety reviews of all 21 buildings has since increased, especially given the frequent footfall around these structures.
Beyond private properties, there's mounting concern about the condition of public buildings. Structures like the old MMC building, the Junta Quarters, and the Communidade building have been in poor shape for years. Cracks in walls, leaking ceilings, and structural fatigue are evident, posing daily risks to pedestrians and occupants alike. Heritage properties across the town have also suffered due to prolonged neglect, turning them into silent safety hazards.
Citizens have repeatedly raised alarms about the deteriorating state of government-owned buildings, demanding accountability from municipal officials. While demolition orders have occasionally been issued, the lack of consistent action has kept several dangerous structures standing, even after partial collapses.
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