Cracks render buildings in Mandi’s Balichowki unsafe

Continuous rainfall and landslides have adversely impacted daily life in Balichowki sub-division of Mandi district. Three buildings in the main market area in Balichowki, known as Zero Point, were ordered to be vacated by the administration after cracks appeared in two of them due to the sliding hillside.

According to reports, landslides on the upper side of Zero Point have led to the weakening of the terrain, directly impacting the structural stability of the nearby buildings. These buildings, which housed both residential tenants and commercial shops, were found to be at risk.

The shopkeepers and tenants vacated the buildings after noticing cracks which were widening. The building owners, Bali Ram and Bir Singh, were deeply distressed over the situation. They said they had invested heavily, taking loans and borrowing from relatives to construct these buildings. “Our livelihood depends on the rent from these shops and rooms. Now we are left with nothing and facing immense hardship,” they said.

In urgent need of assistance, the affected families have appealed to the local administration for immediate relief and compensation. They have also requested a geological survey of the area to assess long-term safety and prevent future risks.

SDM Balichowki, Devi Ram, said that revenue officials visited the site and ordered the evacuation of three buildings as a safety measure. “The decision was taken to prevent any untoward incident. The administration will provide all possible help to the affected families,” he assured.

In a related incident, a 200-meter stretch of the road collapsed near Mani village in Balichowki. Continuous rainfall has left roads damaged and travel risky in several areas across the sub-division.