Akola: A major tragedy was averted after a dilapidated building collapsed near Kali Masjid in the city in the early hours of Thursday. While no casualties were reported as the structure was unoccupied at the time of the incident, several two-wheelers were crushed under the debris, causing substantial property damage.The incident occurred at around 3.35am, triggering panic among residents. Locals rushed to the spot after hearing a loud crash, fearing that people might have been trapped under the rubble. However, officials confirmed that the building was vacant.According to preliminary information, the structure had already been declared unsafe by Akola Municipal Corporation. Civic authorities had reportedly issued notices to the owner, directing that the building be demolished due to its dilapidated condition. Despite the warning, the structure remained standing until it collapsed.Soon after the incident, teams from the municipal corporation and other concerned departments reached the site and began clearing the debris while carrying out a spot inspection and assessment of the damage.Several motorcycles parked adjacent to the building were buried under the rubble and suffered extensive damage. The exact value of the property loss is yet to be assessed.The collapse has once again raised serious concerns over the condition of ageing and unsafe buildings across Akola. Residents have urged the municipal corporation to immediately identify and demolish dangerous structures before they pose a threat to public safety, particularly during the monsoon season when weakened buildings become increasingly vulnerable to collapse.
