Bengaluru 18-storey tower wing to be demolished after tilting, 49 flats unoccupied
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has granted permission for the demolition of an 18-storey wing of a residential tower in southeast Bengaluru after it developed a tilt. The building is part of a larger apartment complex, and the affected wing contains 49 dwelling units, none of which have been occupied.
Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao convened a meeting with Bengaluru South City Corporation officials on Thursday after a private builder applied for demolition permission. Rao told The Hindu that the tilt was minor and that permission was granted to ensure safety. He added that there was no major tilt, but the builder had proactively applied for permission.
According to GBA sources, the wing earmarked for demolition is one of five wings in the tower. The builder has been directed to implement all necessary safety measures during the demolition process. Since no units are occupied, the risk to residents is minimal, authorities said.
The incident raises questions about building safety in Bengaluru, which has seen several construction-related accidents in recent years. In 2022, a six-storey building collapsed in Babusapalya, killing one person. In 2019, a four-storey building under construction collapsed in Hennur, injuring several workers. However, experts caution that each case is different, and the decision to demolish the wing was a precautionary measure.
Urban development experts note that soil conditions, foundation quality, and adherence to building codes are critical for high-rise structures. The GBA has not disclosed the exact cause of the tilt but confirmed that the builder is cooperating with authorities.
Demolition of high-rise wings is a complex process requiring careful planning to avoid damage to adjacent structures. The GBA has not yet announced a timeline for the demolition. Residents of the other wings in the complex have been assured that the building is safe for occupancy, though some have expressed concerns.
Local officials said the incident underscores the need for stricter oversight during construction. The GBA has been implementing new guidelines for high-rise buildings, including mandatory geotechnical surveys and structural audits at various stages.
Meanwhile, the builder has been asked to submit a detailed demolition plan, including measures for debris management and noise control. The GBA will monitor the process to ensure compliance with safety standards.
No further details are available at this time. The incident is under investigation by the GBA's engineering wing.
