**Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Years of Neglect Lead to Devastating House Collapse in Ranipura’s Dolatganj**
A three-storey house in Ranipura’s Dolatganj came crashing down in just five seconds on Monday night, resulting in two deaths and 12 injuries. What appeared as a sudden tragedy was, in fact, a disaster waiting to happen—born from years of neglect, poor construction, and ignored warnings.
A joint ground investigation by Free Press reporters Arsh Rafik Visaal and Aman Sharma revealed that faulty construction, administrative lapses, and a careless disregard by the family were at the heart of the collapse.
### Construction Beyond Foundation’s Capacity
House owner Shamiuddin recounted the building’s timeline: initially, only a ground floor and basement were constructed in 2001. Over the years, additional floors were added—the first floor in 2011, second in 2014, and third in 2015. However, experts confirm that the original foundation was built to support no more than a single storey.
By forcing a G+3 structure on fragile soil and an already weak base, the family pushed the building far beyond its endurance limits.
### Bricks Older Than the House
The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team, upon inspecting the debris, made a startling discovery—bricks used in the construction were older than the house itself. Outdated materials had been reused, contributing to the structure’s inherent instability. While iron rods were present, experts stated they were insufficient to bear the weight of a four-storey load.
In essence, the building was a fragile shell masquerading as a home.
### Drainage Issues and Corrosive Damage
Neighbours reported that drainage water seeping into the basement was a long-standing problem. Since the basement was never utilized, the family had not made efforts to drain it. Over time, stagnant water corroded the foundation quietly but steadily.
Adding to this, residents alleged that a nearby chemical shop frequently discharged acidic wastewater into the colony drains. This corrosive flow pooled into the house’s basement, potentially hollowing the base further.
“We raised the issue several times with shop owners. The drains remained choked. We even complained to the sanitation in-charge and formally warned our corporator on August 3 that the house was unsafe—the stairs had sunk. But no action was taken,” Shamiuddin alleged.
Family members also mentioned that rats, attracted by the drains, gnawed at wooden beams and supports, further weakening the structure.
### A Warning Ignored
Several neighbours reported that on the evening of the collapse, the house was already tilting slightly to one side. The family, aware of the building’s fragility, had booked a rented house nearby and paid advance rent, preparing to move within two days. Unfortunately, fate intervened sooner.
At 9:15 p.m., as the family gathered for dinner on different floors, the house suddenly gave way.
“My brother’s family was eating on the top floor. We were just about to start dinner when suddenly the entire house collapsed. Within seconds, we were under rubble. Neighbours rushed to help, but it was impossible to understand what had happened,” Shamiuddin recounted.
### Where the Family Was Inside the Building
At the time of the collapse:
– Shamiuddin was on the first floor with his wife Sahida Bee, sons Fahimuddin and Aminuddin, daughter-in-law Afreen, and granddaughter Nuren Fatima.
– On the second floor were his niece Aliya and her son Mohammad Ahmed.
– On the third floor, his brother Rafiuddin’s family — including Salma Bee, Altaf, Yasira, Alifa, Navi Ahmed, and Sabista Ansari — were present and became trapped.
### CCTV Captures Collapse Like a “Deck of Cards”
Chilling CCTV footage that has since gone viral captured the moment of disaster: a spark from the ground-floor shop was seen, followed within two seconds by the entire structure collapsing like a deck of cards. Passersby fled as dust and screams filled the air.
### Rescue Efforts and Miraculous Survival
Local residents were the first to respond, frantically digging with bare hands. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) arrived 45 minutes later, by which time many victims had already been pulled from the rubble.
A three-month-old infant was miraculously rescued during the night-long operation.
The tragedy claimed the lives of Alifa (20) and Faheemuddin (40), while 12 others sustained injuries ranging from fractures to amputations. MY Hospital officials confirmed successful surgeries on all critical patients.
### A Chain of Negligence
This collapse was not a mere “accident” but a predictable outcome. Every warning sign had been visible—residents repeatedly reported seepage and cracks, and the family themselves sensed danger and had prepared to move.
Despite the clear risks, no effective action was taken until the building tragically turned into a graveyard.
### Chief Minister’s Response
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed condolences and announced Rs 2 lakh compensation to the kin of each deceased from the CM’s ex-gratia fund.
“My condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the building collapse in Ranipura, Indore. Rs 2 lakh each will be provided from the CM’s ex-gratia fund. Prayers for the departed souls and speedy recovery of the injured,” Yadav said.
### FSL Investigation and Police Probe Underway
Following the incident, FSL officer Suchita Pandey conducted a preliminary inspection at the site. She disclosed that initial findings point to damage in the side wall as a possible cause behind the collapse.
“Samples have been collected from both sides of the damaged portion. The building materials and iron rods will be sent to the laboratory for detailed testing. The actual cause of the accident will be established once the lab report is received,” Pandey informed.
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This tragic event stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting building safety, poor construction practices, and administrative inaction. Authorities and residents alike must now work together to prevent such disasters in the future.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-news-untold-story-of-disaster-waiting-to-happen
