DMRC lists precautionary measures for tunnelling after Sadar Bazar building collapse

New Delhi, Jul 11 (PTI) After the collapse of three buildings near an underground metro construction site in Sadar Bazar's Mithaipul area, the DMRC on Friday issued a list of precautionary measures it follows during tunnelling operations to ensure public safety.

The move comes in the wake of a tragic incident in which one person died during debris clearance following the collapse.

The structures, which housed shops and offices, were located within the influence zone of the Janakpuri West–RK Ashram Marg corridor, where tunnelling is currently underway.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said the measures undertaken during tunnelling include a pre-construction building survey and condition mapping.

The existing condition of buildings, including any visible cracks or damages, is recorded with photographic and video evidence in the presence of occupants and jointly signed off by them, it added.

"In cases where required, strengthening and structural protection of public or private properties are carried out at the cost of the DMRC or the contractor," the Corporation said.

In addition, properties falling within the influence zone of Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) activity are continuously monitored using instruments. If any structure is found to be vulnerable, the occupants are shifted in advance, with all boarding and lodging expenses covered by the contractor or the DMRC, it added.

The DMRC said that the buildings, which collapsed earlier this week, had already been declared unsafe.

"They were evacuated in June following a condition survey. Notices were issued to the owners on June 12, alerting them that the structures were severely dilapidated and must be vacated immediately," said DMRC Principal Executive Director Anuj Dayal.

He said that subsoil grouting and external structural supports were also provided before tunnelling commenced. Despite these precautions, the buildings collapsed around 2 am on Friday, triggering a massive rescue effort by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Delhi Police.

The site has since been cordoned off and secured. A detailed investigation into the incident has been ordered and the tunnelling work is being carried out by infrastructure construction company AFCONS.

The DMRC has announced an ex-gratia of Rs five lakh for the family of a person, who died during debris clearance. PTI SHB AS AS