Deep excavation by builder puts houses in Mandi at risk of collapsing

Several residential buildings in the Sanyard ward of the Mandi Municipal Corporation are facing the threat of collapsing due to deep excavation carried out by a private builder. The excavation, allegedly done on the builder’s private land to develop residential plots for sale, has exposed the nearby houses of local residents to risk, creating panic among the affected families.

The families of Sohan Lal, Durga, Dr Jaryal, Manish, Vinod Kumar and others have been directly impacted by the excavation.

Sohan Lal and Manish told The Tribune that their homes were exposed to the danger of collapsing. “It is shocking how such dangerous excavation was permitted so close to the existing houses. We are living in constant fear, especially during this ongoing monsoon season, and have been forced to take shelter elsewhere,” said Sohan Lal.

Residents alleged that despite many complaints, no immediate action was taken initially. However, following the intervention of the local authorities, including Ward Councillor Virender Arya, Mayor Virender Bhatt, and Municiapl Commissioner Rohit Rathour, the builder agreed to construct a protective wall to prevent further damage. The wall, however, would be constructed only after the monsoon season as the current conditions were deemed unsafe for any construction work.

Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathour along with the local Tehsildar visited the site to assess the situation. He said that a land dispute existed between the two parties, with both accusing each other of encroachment. “The builder claims that the affected families have encroached upon his land, while the latter allege that the builder is conducting dangerous excavation too close to their homes,” said Rathour.

To address both safety and legal issues, Rathour summoned the two parties and urged them to reach a consensus. “We agreed that saving the houses is the immediate priority. The builder has committed to building a protection wall after the monsoon season. Regarding the land dispute, both parties have agreed to wait for proper demarcation. If encroachment is proved, the party found guilty will pay the market value of the land to the rightful owner,” he added.

Land dispute

• A land dispute exists between local residents and the private builder, with both accusing each other of encroachment

Himachal Tribune