Daijiworld Media Network - Quepem

Quepem, Jun 5: A portion of the rear slab of the Deputy Collectorate building in Quepem collapsed on Thursday, triggering concerns over the structural safety of the ageing government office complex.

According to sources, the slab portion fell behind the building and no injuries or casualties were reported. Employees and members of the public present on the premises escaped unharmed.

Following the incident, Deputy Collector Manohar Karekar directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to carry out repair work on the damaged section within 48 hours to prevent any further mishap.

The single-storey building houses several key government offices, including those of the Deputy Collector, Mamlatdar, Excise Department and Sub-Registrar. Sources said the structure has been showing signs of deterioration for some time, with visible cracks on the rear side and several portions of the concrete slab weakened due to wear and tear.

The incident has heightened concerns among staff and visitors, many of whom have pointed to the building's deteriorating condition and the need for urgent attention.

Local residents and visitors have called for a comprehensive structural assessment and reconstruction of the building, arguing that temporary repairs may not be sufficient given the extent of the damage. They have urged the government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of employees and the public using the premises.