Landslip destroys 3-storey building in Balichowki

A huge landslide totally damaged a three-storey commercial building in the main market of the Balichowki area in Mandi district late last night. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, as the local authorities timely started evacuation measures.

Bali Ram and Biri Singh jointly owned the building that collapsed. It had eight commercial shops on the ground floor and around 30 rooms that were rented primarily for residential and business purposes. According to officials, the region had shown signs of land subsidence earlier in 2023. After fresh cracks and land shifts were observed in the area, the local administration acted swiftly and evacuated around 60 families and more than 40 shopkeepers from the danger zone three days ago. All affected residents and traders were relocated to relief camps set up by the district administration.

The Balichowki SDM said the site was unstable and geological experts would carry out assessment to determine long-term solutions. The authorities are providing shelter, food and medical aid to the displaced families.