Hyderabad: Resident of Coles Park in Pulakeshinagar thought that a landmark, Prestige Deja-vu, would shortly come up next to their neighbourhood, but little did they know what was in store for them. About five buildings developed cracks and damage after the builder took up earth excavation.
Though there were no casualties, the houses belonging to Rahamathulla and Asgar developed cracks and collapsed. They were forced to evacuate the houses and move their belongings outside.
The incident happened early morning and sparked panic among local residents.
The houses had developed cracks as if an earthquake had hit the area. About 10 families living in the surrounding areas had to be shifted to safer locations. The builder had excavated about 40 feet to build a basement for a 21-floor residential project on Promenade Road in Frazer Town.
The local corporator, Abdul Rakhib Zakir, said after the incident he along with his supporters rushed to the spot. The police also came and soon the affected residents were shifted to the safer location. They were all moved to a nearby service apartment on MM Road as a temporary measure, he said.
The builder has taken up his project as per the sanctioned plan and complied with the norms after obtaining the commencement certificate from the BBMP.
After having dug for the basement he has build a retaining wall for the safety of neighbouring structures.
“But, since the builder has gone about 50 feet down they have hit upon a natural water source or the water may be flowing due to the rainy season. The water source has weakened the foundation of these old houses and they collapsed. On the positive side, one of the representatives of the builder visited the spot and offered to undo the damage. He also agreed to rehabilitate the victims at a nearby apartment until the work is completed,” Zakir said.
A case of negligence has been registered against the builder with the Pulakeshinagar police station and directed to make all necessary arrangements to the victims, he added. Asgar Pasha, whose house got damaged, said that it was unfortunate that his house had collapsed. However, the builder has been helpful in shifting us. They have also offered to rebuild the house, he said and added that they have been provided accommodation at a nearby apartment as temporary measure.
