The Kanpur Metro project, the Kanpur Municipal Corporation (KMC) has directed the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) to assess the condition of houses in the Harbans Mohal area, following the collapse of a house attributed to ongoing tunnel boring work. The KMC’s intervention underscores growing concerns over the safety of residential structures in proximity to the Metro construction site.
The recent collapse of a house, coupled with the appearance of cracks in adjacent buildings, has prompted the Mayor and UPMRC officials to conduct an on-site inspection. During the inspection, it was revealed that the tunnel boring activities had compromised the integrity of not only residential buildings but also essential infrastructure, including sewer drainage and water lines. The impact of the construction has led to urgent discussions on ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected residents.
The KMC has mandated that the UPMRC provide a three-month rent advance to tenants residing in damaged or dilapidated buildings. This measure is intended to facilitate the relocation of residents to safer accommodations while a thorough assessment of the structural integrity of the affected houses is conducted. The Mayor has also called for an investigation by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to evaluate the condition of these buildings, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing potential risks. According to UPMRC officials, approximately 12 houses have been identified as being in a severely dilapidated state, with a further 45 structures exhibiting minor damages that can be swiftly repaired. The situation has reached a critical point, with one particularly deteriorated building adjacent to the collapsed house recommended for demolition to prevent any further accidents.
The Mayor’s directive to compile a comprehensive list of the affected buildings within two days is a crucial step in ensuring that all at-risk structures are promptly addressed. The KMC’s insistence on a detailed assessment and immediate action highlights the importance of safety in urban infrastructure projects, particularly those as extensive as the Kanpur Metro. As the UPMRC proceeds with the Metro construction, the focus on resident safety and structural integrity remains paramount. The outcome of the IIT’s assessment and the subsequent measures taken by the UPMRC will be closely watched, as they set a precedent for how such issues are managed in urban development projects across the country.
