Eight people died and three others were injured after the collapse of a six-story residential building in the center, the Ministry of Health reported.
Rescue teams continue to “search through the rubble to find injured people or bodies,” Egyptian ministry spokesman Hosam Abdel Ghafar said in a statement.
The building, built in the 1960s, had been under a repair order sence 1993, according to a Waili district official cited by the government daily Al Ahram.
“The residents had appealed against said order, which was never executed,” he added.
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As a precaution, the authorities evacuated several neighboring buildings this Tuesday, the governance of Cairo.
Many of the buildings in the center of the Egyptian capital, dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, have not been restored.
In recent years, Greater Cairo has experienced several collapses such as this building due to both its deterioration and non-compliance with urban planning and construction regulations.
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How can residents advocate for better building safety in their neighborhoods?
Title: Interview with Urban Development Expert on the Recent Building Collapse in Cairo
Q: Thank you for joining us today. Can you provide us with an overview of the recent tragic building collapse in Cairo?
A: Absolutely. This unfortunate incident occurred when a six-story residential building in central Cairo collapsed, resulting in the tragic loss of eight lives, with three others injured. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to sift through the rubble, searching for any survivors or additional victims.This event underscores a severe issue facing Cairo, where many buildings, particularly those built in the mid-20th century, are deteriorating.
Q: The building was reportedly under a repair order as 1993. What does this indicate about urban infrastructure in Cairo adn the enforcement of safety regulations?
A: That’s a critical point. This situation highlights important lapses in urban planning and enforcement of safety regulations in Egypt. The fact that residents appealed against the repair order, which was never executed, suggests systemic failures in addressing public safety concerns. Many buildings in Cairo, especially those from the 19th and 20th centuries, have not been adequately restored, leading to an increased risk of structural failures like the one we witnessed.
Q: Given this incident, what steps could be taken to improve building safety in Egypt?
A: First and foremost, there needs to be a robust enforcement of existing urban planning and construction regulations. Regular inspections and maintenance schedules must be established for older buildings. Additionally, the government should prioritize investment in infrastructure renewal, encouraging the renovation of dilapidated structures.Community engagement is also crucial—residents should have a voice in the decisions regarding their living conditions to foster better compliance and awareness.
Q: This collapse is not an isolated event, as you mentioned.What trends have you observed in terms of building safety in Greater Cairo?
A: Unfortunately, we have seen a rise in building collapses in Greater Cairo, attributed to a combination of factors including poor construction practices, outdated building codes, and a lack of adherence to safety regulations. As urban populations swell, it’s vital that we address these risks proactively to prevent further tragedies. We must learn from such incidents and understand that a society’s safety reflects its commitment to infrastructure and community well-being.
Q: As a final question, what practical advice would you provide to residents living in older buildings?
A: Residents should be vigilant and proactive about the condition of their homes. I recommend they familiarize themselves with local regulations and any known issues related to building safety. Establishing a community watch system to monitor structural integrity and advocating for inspections can also be beneficial. If there are concerns about the safety of their building, residents should communicate with local authorities or seek legal advice to address potential risks effectively. Awareness and action are key to ensuring safety in our urban environments.
Q: Thank you for sharing your insights. This conversation highlights the vulnerabilities within urban infrastructure and the critical need for immediate action to enhance safety for all residents in Cairo.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep this dialog going to help ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.