Demolition of unsafe Panaji market building hits roadblock

PANAJI
The Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) is grappling with logistical and safety issues in demolishing the multi-storeyed building in the Panaji market area, which it had sealed earlier this year after being declared structurally unsafe.
The CCP floated a tender inviting bids from qualified contractors to undertake the demolition of the ground-plus-three building, including structural engineering services and bringing down the structure which adjoins a fully functional residential-cum-commercial building — Falcon Apartments — housing the popular 'Cream Centre' outlet, Tanuja Stores and a designer electrical fittings showroom of Luis & Co.
However, progress has stalled due to complications arising from the building’s proximity to Falcon Apartments — a privately owned structure housing active businesses with high daily footfall.
CCP officials confirmed that plans are underway to temporarily vacate Falcon Apartments during the demolition to ensure public safety. “We are in a delicate situation. The adjacent building is fully functional, and we cannot risk any collateral damage,” a CCP official said.
“The demolition will proceed only after we secure the surrounding area and ensure minimal disruption,” he added.
The building, located near El Dorado Plaza, was cordoned off following a damning structural audit by the Goa College of Engineering, which highlighted severe deterioration, including floating columns and crumbling concrete, prompting CCP to vacate 13 tenants, many of whom operated popular ground-floor businesses.
Urban development authorities are also reviewing the broader implications of the demolition, as the building is one of several in the capital flagged for structural instability.