Vikal Sharma
Palampur — A frightening incident unfolded on Monday when a portion of the gallery of the Jamwal Building, located directly opposite the Palampur Post Office, unexpectedly collapsed, sending debris crashing onto the street below.
The collapse caused significant damage to several parked two-wheelers, including scooters and motorcycles, triggering panic among passersby and local residents. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as people ran for safety, fearing further structural failure.
Fortunately, despite the dramatic collapse and visible damage to vehicles, no injuries were reported. The parking area underneath the building remained unharmed, and all individuals in and around the structure were safely evacuated. Officials are crediting the minimal foot traffic in the area at the time with preventing casualties.
Local authorities arrived promptly at the scene to assess the damage and secure the affected zone, ensuring that no further debris posed a threat. Preliminary inspections indicate that structural wear and possible neglect may have contributed to the sudden collapse, but a detailed inquiry is expected to follow.
The incident has sparked concerns about building safety and the need for regular maintenance checks on older commercial structures in the town’s busy areas. Municipal officials have assured that a thorough inspection of the building will be carried out, and preventive measures will be implemented for other aging infrastructures in the vicinity.
Residents expressed relief that the situation did not escalate into a tragedy and urged the administration to take swift action to prevent similar incidents.
The community awaits further updates as the investigation begins into the cause of the collapse and accountability for the damages incurred.
Vikal Sharma
