GEC: Panaji market building is not safe

Panaji: The Goa College of Engineering (GEC) conducted a structural audit and non-destructive testing (NDT) analysis of the municipal fish market building in Panaji and concluded that the building is “unsafe” for use, and strongly recommending that it “may be” demolished safely.

The report, dated Sept 17, states that the structure may “give up or collapse partially or fully” under any additional load such as an earthquake, heavy rain, or wind-borne vibrations. The report also said that occupants and fish vendors have to be cautious. “The premise is being used as a fish market where the density of the public is always high, and any untoward incident of partial collapse of damaged walls, chejjas, or slabs may create irrecoverable loss to public life,” states the report prepared by Ganesh Hegde and professor Madhuraj Naik of the civil engineering department of the college.

The audit states that the building is not fit for rehabilitation and retrofitting. Corporation of the CCP had sealed the building last month, stating that it was unsafe, which left meat vendors without a place for business. The meat vendors and one occupant selling jewellery approached the high court seeking an immediate de-sealing of the premises so that they can earn their livelihood pending rehabilitation. The matter is being heard by the court.