Ignored Warning, Broken Diaphragm Wall Leaves 48 Ahmedabad Families Homeless After Heavy Rains

A month after residents warned authorities that a retaining wall at a redevelopment site in Ahmedabad's Naranpura could collapse, their fears have turned into reality. Heavy rain triggered the failure of a diaphragm wall at the Surya Vibhag-2 Housing Society redevelopment project, forcing 48 families to evacuate their homes amid fears of structural collapse.

The incident has sparked allegations of official negligence, poor construction practices and political patronage, with residents claiming their written complaint dated June 22 was ignored despite highlighting the potential danger.

Residents Say Warning Was Ignored

The redevelopment work is underway at Surya Vibhag-2 Housing Society in Parasnagar, Naranpura. According to residents of the neighbouring Karnavati Vibhag-2 Society, they had submitted a written complaint to the Gujarat Housing Board nearly a month ago, warning that the diaphragm wall appeared weak and could fail.

Despite the complaint, no preventive action was taken. Following heavy rainfall, the wall gave way, creating a serious risk to adjoining residential buildings.

Around 200 Residents Forced to Leave Homes

The collapse has affected two neighbouring residential complexes—Karnavati Vibhag-2 and Laxmikrupa Apartments. As a precaution, around 48 families, comprising nearly 200 people, have been asked to vacate their homes.

Many displaced residents have shifted to relatives' houses, while others are staying at a municipal hall in Pragatinagar after being forced out of their homes.

Residents Allege Poor Construction and Political Influence

Local residents alleged that the redevelopment project is being executed by Bhavna Property Developer Limited and accused the builder of carrying out substandard construction.

They also claimed the developer enjoys significant political influence. According to residents, the builder is a former Congress corporator who later joined the BJP, alleging that this influence prevented authorities from taking action despite repeated complaints.

Encroachment Blocks Emergency Access

Residents have also accused the builder of encroaching on a public road by constructing temporary labour shelters.

Amit Patel, a local resident, alleged that the encroachment has blocked access for emergency vehicles, making it impossible for ambulances and fire brigade vehicles to enter the society.

"We are now afraid to even enter our own homes," he said.

MLA Says Site Permission Cancelled

Residents later met local MLA Jitu Bhagat to raise the issue.

According to residents, the MLA informed them that permission granted for the redevelopment site had been cancelled and directions had been issued to immediately fill the hazardous excavation.

However, when residents sought assistance regarding rental accommodation after being displaced, they were reportedly told that compensation for rent would have to be pursued through the courts, leaving many dissatisfied.

Questions Over Accountability

The incident has intensified concerns over oversight of redevelopment projects in Ahmedabad, particularly during the monsoon. Residents argue that timely intervention after their June complaint could have prevented the collapse and the displacement of dozens of families.

With nearly 200 people still unable to return home, questions are now being raised over accountability, construction quality and the response of authorities despite receiving prior warnings.