Lack of clear plan blamed for delay in T Nagar demolition

The demolition of the building began without a proper plan. A source from the private entity conducting the demolition conceded that the procedure was stalled, due to unforeseen structural obstructions. The absence of a building plan further slowed down the process. 

“There was no building plan given to us. Recently, a portion of the building, where there was a lift room, collapsed and fell on the hydraulic jaw-cutter, damaging the machine. We repaired it within a few hours. The demolition is proceeding slowly since we have to ensure that the other buildings are not damaged,” said the source. 

The demolition was started immediately, after the fire was doused, with hardly any proper assessment, said the sources. There is a lack of coordination between the various parties involved. 

When asked if an assessment was done before the demolition, an official from the Public Works Department, which had been overseeing the process, washed of their hands. “We are just a liaising agency. The demolition is being carried out by the private contractor and the building owners,” said the official. 

Attempts to reach the owners of the gutted building were in vain. The demolition has inconvenienced the residents and neighbouring shops, which are bearing the brunt of dust and debris. The demolition process will take another week, said Peer Mohammed, Proprietor of Parveen Traders, which is carrying out the demolition.

“The work has been proceeding and 50% of the building has been brought down. Within a week, we will complete the process. Our aim is to bring down the building in as safe manner, hence the delay,” he said. A massive fire broke out on May 31 at the Chennai silks, gutting the seven storey structure, in one of the busiest roads of T-Nagar.