VUDA seeks strict punishment in building collapse case

A day after the two residential buildings collapsed in Vadodara killing 11 and injuring several others, the local authority, Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) has stated that the investigation has put on fast track and those responsible will be given strictest punishment possible under the law.

The chief of urban development authority, N V Patel has released a list of people associated with the construction and planning of the residential scheme, which was constructed in 2001. The list includes the name of architect, contractors, supervisors, engineers and the-then committee members and chairpersons of VUDA.

While allegations are being made against VUDA for ignoring the complaints made by the residents of the ill-fated residential scheme, officials are seen escaping from any clarification on the same. Also, VUDA chairman, Patel avoided pointed questions by reporters on the incident stating that "the matter is sub judice".

"An FIR has been launched and the committee has been formed to look into the reasons of the collapse. I can't comment anything further on the incident as the matter is sub judice," Patel told mediapersons on Thursday. Also he did not clarify when the committee is expected to submit its report. Two blocks of a government residential scheme had collapsed on Wednesday early morning. The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for kin of those who died.