Mandi: 30-Room Building Collapses Overnight in Balichowki, No Casualties Reported

Mandi, August 23:
A massive 30-room building in the main market area of Balichowki sub-division collapsed late last night, reducing to rubble within moments. Fortunately, no lives were lost as the structure had already been vacated by the administration due to visible risks. A live video of the collapse has also surfaced.

The building belonged to Bali Ram and Biri Singh, and housed 8 shops and 30 rooms, most of which had been rented out. On Wednesday, signs of land subsidence appeared, leading to major cracks in 13 houses in the vicinity. Acting swiftly, the administration evacuated the buildings.

More than 60 families and over 40 shopkeepers were residing or running businesses in these structures. They have now been shifted to safer locations and relief camps set up by the administration. While some belongings were retrieved beforehand, much remains buried under the debris.

The ongoing land subsidence has also damaged roads connecting Balichowki, Sharsh, Khalao, and Rahi, leaving schoolchildren and residents cut off from regular routes. SDM Balichowki, Devi Chand, confirmed that while there were no casualties, full support and relief measures are being extended to the affected families.

Subsidence in the Region Since 2023
Land subsidence in this area first began in 2023, when six houses near Nag Temple in Balichowki were destroyed. Experts note that the one-kilometer stretch is highly unstable due to its steep slope and fragile, loose rock formations. Authorities emphasize that a detailed geological survey of the region is urgently required.