Guj: Builders to pay compensation for earthquake victims

Ahmedabad, Feb 2: The Gujarat State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission ordered the Sangemarmar builders to pay a compensation of Rs 35 lakh each to earthquake victims.

Over 40 residents had suffered due to the destruction caused by the earthquake in 2001.

According to the consumer forum, the building collapsed due to the usage of low quality products by the builders. M/s Shreenath Corporation will have to give Rs 14 crore in total.

The collapse of the building took away the lives of ten residents and the builders have to pay the compensation for the loss of family members, loss of body parts, damage to vehicles and other property loses.

"The construction is therefore to be made in view of the possibility of the earthquake. It is on record that after the earthquake the Gujarat high court had appointed an expert committee of engineers and architects and secretary of the public works department. This expert report proves that the complaints' apartment was damaged due to substandard material. It was sheer negligence on the part of the opponent," said the commission.

"Builders are service providers and it is their duty that they provide the best for their consumers. This judgment can be useful for victims who are fighting cases in various criminal courts," said Thakker.

"This judgment of such a large scale is a landmark. Other cases are pending in criminal and other courts. This judgment will help bring out the truth and help other victims who are waiting for justice," said Himanshu Thakker, lawyer.

"I sensed that something was wrong and decided to take up the case on humanitarian grounds. This judgment of such a large scale is a landmark. Other cases are pending in criminal and other courts. This judgment will help bring out the truth and help other victims who are waiting for justice," Thakker added.

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