Building Deemed 'Unsafe' Near DC's Office in Chandigarh Collapses

Chandigarh, Jan 6 (NationPress) A commercial structure aged over fifty years, situated near the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Sector 17, Chandigarh, which had been deemed unsafe in the past, fell down on Monday morning.

Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in this incident involving the building located in the bustling center of the city.

According to eyewitness accounts, the collapse occurred around 7 a.m. The neighboring structure, which formerly housed the well-known Mehfil restaurant, has also sustained damage and developed cracks due to the building’s collapse.

Emergency services, including police and fire brigade teams, have promptly arrived at the scene.

The local administration had previously classified the building as unsafe and had taken measures to seal it off.

Reports indicate that some renovation work was taking place in the building prior to its classification as unsafe due to cracks emerging in its pillars and walls. Police had cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure to avert any potential mishap.

The police revealed that the building was under lease, and tenants were undertaking significant renovation projects.

Chandigarh’s Sector 17 shopping plaza is renowned as a pedestrian-friendly space, designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. Unfortunately, it has lost much of its former charm over time.

This shopping district, initially envisioned as a walkers’ paradise in the European style, has been experiencing a decline in business since the early 2010s.

Shopkeepers lament that they have lost customers to the air-conditioned Elante Mall and North Country Mall, where visitors enjoy spending hours shopping and dining, in addition to numerous entertainment options.

A significant number of multinational brand outlets have relocated to more vibrant shopping areas, further contributing to the reduced foot traffic in Sector 17’s marketplace.

The closure of Lyon’s Restaurant, notably located in Sector 17, is considered a significant loss for longtime residents, who cherish memories of the past. Others have relied on this eatery as a landmark for directions. Upscale bars and microbreweries in other locations have overshadowed the Gymkhana Pub in Sector 17, which was known for its affordability.

Several prominent establishments that have closed in light of changing trends include Kwality Restaurant, Blue Ice, Indian Coffee House, Shangrila, Oven Fresh, Anchor Pub, Bhatura King, Deepak Radios, along with law bookseller Jain General House and Jain Jewellers.