'Resident had complained over illegal repairs'

Mumbai, July 19: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Shubha Raul today said a resident of the collapsed building, V R Jain, had complained to local civic authorities that the owner of Vardhman Jewellers, situated on the ground floor of Laxmi Chhaya, had removed a pillar, making the structure prone to crumble.

Talking to reporters here, Mr Raul said the Jeweller, who owned three shops in the ill-fated building, had conducted heavy repairs that caused the building to collapse yesterday.

The number of dead has risen to 26, with a one month old infant amongst the casualty.

She said Mr Jain had written to the local municipal authorities that the owner of Vardhman Jewellers had removed a pillar from the building and that it was dangerous.

Standing Committe Chairman Ravindra Waikar confirmed the fact and said the resident had informed the officials regarding the illegal and dangerous repairs.

Refusing to divulge what action he will initiate against the guilty officials, BMC Commissioner Jairaj Phatak said Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh will take a decision on it.

Planning Commission member Bhalchandra Mungekar, who called on the Commissioner today, said the BMC should take action against the landlords who carry out illegal repairs in various parts of the city.

UNI