After ceiling collapse, LDCE plans repairs and new hostels

Ahmedabad: Days after a portion of the ceiling collapsed in a hostel room at LD College of Engineering (LDCE), injuring a student, the institute has announced that repair work will begin from Friday. Authorities clarified that there were currently no plans to demolish the existing hostel buildings.The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Block B, when part of the ceiling gave way and fell on a student, leaving him with serious back injuries. He was rushed to Sola Civil Hospital for treatment. The mishap triggered concern among other hostel residents, many of whom pointed to the deteriorating condition of several blocks.Student organisations also stepped in, submitting a memorandum to the college administration and urging immediate structural repairs to ensure safety.College officials said that the hostel buildings, some of which date back to 1948, house around 1,350 students across six blocks. "We are in touch with the roads and buildings (R&B) department for necessary repairs and maintenance. Structural assessments suggest that repairs are sufficient at this stage, and there is no immediate need to raze the buildings," said a senior LDCE official.He added that sections identified as structurally weak will be taken up for repairs starting Friday.LDCE principal Nilay Bhuptani said the institute was also exploring plans for new hostel facilities. "New hostel blocks may be constructed on plots behind the existing premises. A comprehensive assessment of all blocks will be carried out to ensure student safety," he said.