The Rajasthan government has initiated a large-scale and urgent drive to demolish 2,699 dilapidated structures across the state. This comprehensive action plan is a direct response to the growing concerns over the vulnerability of public and private infrastructure, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season. The directive is aimed at preventing further accidents and safeguarding the lives of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable—school-going children. This decisive action underscores the state’s commitment to urban resilience and public safety, signalling a new, proactive approach to managing aging and unsafe infrastructure.
The decision to launch this statewide drive was prompted by recent tragedies in Jhalawar and Jaisalmer districts, where portions of school buildings collapsed under the impact of continuous rain, leading to fatal accidents. This has brought to the forefront the critical issue of neglected infrastructure and the high-stakes risk it poses. The Local Self-Government Department is spearheading the campaign, with civic officials instructed to remain on high alert. The immediate actions include sealing these unsafe buildings and marking them with clear warning boards to prevent any public access. This measure is intended to serve as a temporary but crucial safety barrier while the demolition process is expedited, ensuring that no further lives are lost to structural failures.
In a move towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced approach to urban safety, the Education Department has also announced a series of urgent measures. This includes the use of Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping to pinpoint and track all vulnerable structures across the state. Furthermore, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being explored to monitor structural safety, a forward-looking step that could revolutionise how the state manages its aging infrastructure. These measures not only address the immediate crisis but also lay the groundwork for a long-term, eco-friendly, and data-driven approach to urban development, which is critical for creating resilient and equitable cities.
Beyond the structural integrity of buildings, the government’s drive also includes a focus on identifying and rectifying other public hazards. The civic officials are now coordinating with power companies to address electrical hazards, such as loose or exposed wiring, near roads, poles, and transformer boxes. This integrated approach to disaster preparedness acknowledges that public safety is a multifaceted issue that requires collaboration across different government departments. The collective effort to demolish unsafe structures, map vulnerable areas with technology, and address ancillary public hazards marks a significant and commendable shift from a reactive to a proactive governance model. This initiative is a powerful narrative about how government can take a firm stand in favour of societal well-being and protect its citizens from foreseeable risks.
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