Why Did Rajasthan Order the Demolition of 2,699 Unsafe Buildings?

Jaipur, Aug 1 (NationPress) In a significant step following recent incidents in Jhalawar and Jaisalmer, the Rajasthan Department of Autonomous Governance has mandated the sealing and demolition of 2,699 unsafe buildings throughout the state.

This initiative is part of a statewide monsoon readiness strategy, with officials directed to conduct thorough inspections, alert the public, and avert any potential disasters. The decision comes in response to alarming events in Jhalawar and Jaisalmer, where concerns over unsafe infrastructure and heavy rainfall have heightened safety issues, prompting the Department of Autonomous Governance in Rajasthan to take immediate action.

In light of the increasing risk of structural failures, particularly during the monsoon season, the department has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of building safety and disaster preparedness across urban locales.

On Thursday, Administrative Secretary Ravi Jain led an important virtual meeting that included the heads of 224 urban local bodies statewide.

This meeting launched an assertive enforcement campaign to seal and demolish buildings deemed hazardous to public safety. In a resolute directive, Jain instructed the immediate sealing and demolition of 2,699 identified dilapidated structures within the jurisdiction of the 224 municipal bodies.

The Department of Autonomous Governance is now in a state of high alert, anticipating further risks of structural failures and waterlogging-related incidents. Jain emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential casualties.

He urged all municipal commissioners and executive officers to routinely inspect buildings in their areas and take prompt action to prevent accidents. Additionally, he stressed the importance of public awareness by installing visible warning signage in front of unsafe buildings, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidental injuries or fatalities.

Data shared during the meeting indicated that under a special initiative launched throughout Rajasthan, 2,699 buildings have been flagged as unsafe.

These identifications were based on structural audits and physical assessments conducted in accordance with state guidelines. Jain confirmed that the process of sealing and demolishing these structures is currently underway, prioritizing those located in densely populated or high-risk areas.

He firmly directed all municipal commissioners and executive officers to personally inspect their designated areas and conduct regular evaluations to ensure compliance with safety orders. This hands-on approach is essential to safeguard public safety from administrative oversights. He also mandated that municipal officials guarantee the visibility of caution signs near unsafe buildings and require real-time updates on demolition and sealing progress.

Another significant topic addressed in the meeting was the state of electrical infrastructure within urban settings. With increasing reports of electric shocks, short circuits, and fire risks due to exposed or loose wiring during rains, Jain ordered urgent collaboration with engineers from power distribution companies (discoms). He stressed the immediate need to address loose wires dangerously hanging over roads and public spaces.

Specific instructions were laid out for the urgent removal or repair of loose wires near electric poles, distribution points, cable boxes, and switch boxes. Jain also emphasized the necessity of sealing or replacing broken lids of switch boxes without delay.

Municipal fire brigades must remain on standby, with vehicles, skilled personnel, and equipment ready 24/7 for sudden emergencies such as electrical fires or structural collapses.

Furthermore, coordination with local electricity boards needs to be enhanced to ensure prompt responses to hazardous electrical situations. Jain highlighted that, during the monsoon, even minor oversights could result in life-threatening outcomes, making preventative measures imperative to avert disasters.

With Rajasthan facing heavier-than-anticipated monsoon rainfall this year, enhancing urban safety and infrastructure resilience has become a pressing priority.