Bengaluru: As rescue operations continue with the death toll rising to 8 people who lost their lives in Eastern Bengaluru’s building collapse authorities have arrested the building’s owner, his son, and a contractor, who are facing serious charges in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the owner received approval to build a three-story structure but illegally expanded it to six floors. Although civic officials had issued notices about these violations, they failed to take meaningful action to prevent the illegal construction.
Additionally as per a Time of India report, local residents allege that a bribe of Rs 5 lakh was paid to a civic official and a political aide to overlook the additional floors. This neglect of construction standards has been cited as a key factor in the building’s collapse, which has primarily affected laborers working at the site.
Chief Commissioner acknowledges illegal construction
Meanwhile, in light of public outrage, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has suspended the assistant executive engineer of the Horamavu subdivision and launched an inquiry into the matter. Moreover, BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath acknowledged the widespread issue of unauthorised constructions throughout the city, citing the lack of proper building licenses. While he confirmed the suspension of the assistant executive engineer, he did not mention any further actions against other responsible officials.
Three notices; low quality material used for construction
Zonal commissioner KN Ramesh revealed that the building owner had received three demolition notices regarding the illegal floors, but enforcement of these notices was delayed. Joint commissioner Dakshayini criticised the use of substandard materials, suggesting that the building might have collapsed even without the recent heavy rains.
In a visit to the site, Lokayukta Justice BS Patil condemned the inaction of local authorities. He pointed out that a notice was only issued once the construction reached the fourth floor, and no preventive measures were taken thereafter. The Lokayukta has summoned various officials, including the Commissioner, to provide explanations for their lack of action.
