Look out for signs of building collapse: TMC to residents

Cracks developing in the building walls, cracks in the beam, bending of the steel beams and the cracking of window panes are some of the signs that the building might be unsafe.

The guidelines to know the time to carry out the structural audit of the building are issued by the Thane Municipal Corporation. Moreover, the guidelines will be spread among the masses by the schoolchildren. While it is mandatory to carry out the structural audit of 30 years old buildings, many buildings reach the dangerous status before the 30 years mark.

A TMC official said, “If residents can identify the signs that the building is weak, they can carry out a structural audit in time. We will publish the signs so that people are aware.”

Most dangerous buildings develop cracks in walls, the concrete on the pillars swells or even peel off, exposing the steel. If the building is dangerous, the steel may appear bend or have cracks. The frames of the windows or doors might bend, the window panes might crack or there will be an unusual gap between the door frame and the door.

The official added, “The education department has roped in municipal schoolchildren to create awareness among residents. If students persuade parents to get building audited, they will be more willing to do it. We will educate students to identify dangerous buildings and explain them the dangerous of living in such buildings.” Gaibi Nagar area in Bhiwandi where a building collapsed recently.