RMC orders evacuation of 'unsafe' buildings
The corporation has also warned of legal action against those who fail to comply.
The identified buildings, located in densely populated areas such as Bhabra Bazaar, Landa Bazaar, Saidpuri Gate, Raja Bazaar, Mochi Bazaar, Dangi Khoi, and other locations, have been declared hazardous due to their deteriorating condition.
Officials fear that continued occupancy during monsoon rains, potential floods, or earthquakes could lead to a major disaster.
Under the Punjab Local Government Act 2022, building owners have been directed to either repair their properties or demolish the dangerous portions within the specified timeframe. If these instructions are ignored, the authorities will forcibly vacate the premises and may initiate legal proceedings against both owners and residents. A public notice has also been issued in newspapers to raise awareness.
Meanwhile, municipal teams continue to survey and identify additional unsafe structures throughout the city. Officials say all necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety of citizens.
It is worth noting that, according to law, such actions should ideally be taken well before the start of the monsoon season. However, in practice, notices are often issued only after rains beginmainly so that in case of an accident, the authorities can claim they had fulfilled their duty.
In many cases, residents of these unsafe buildings lack the financial means to relocate and are forced to continue living in hazardous conditions.
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