10 kg of explosives that could not do the job

Extra-cautious approach of the officials and a strong illegal structure render 10kg of explosives unable to show its might. The five-storied structure at Guttala Begumpet, which was chosen for the implosion experiment carried out for the first time in the city, was filled with 90 pieces of commercial explosives. A total of 10 kg was used to fill dozens of columns, each drilled with at least three holes.

However, the technical assessment of the impact of the implosion went wrong.

“We thought that after the ground, first and second floors are detonated, the remaining top floors will collapse on their own under the weight. It did not happen that way and there was not much damage to the upper floors,” said Srikant Vairagare of Uttam Blastech, who had carried out a similar assignment in Gulbarga in the past. “Initially, we thought that the construction was bad but we realised that the structure was strong.”

Chief City Planner of GHMC S. Devender Reddy said that since it was the first time they were “extra cautious”.

“We think that the implosion worked well,” said Mr. Reddy. “We were concerned that if a large amount of explosives was used, it could result in explosion and create havoc. We wanted to ensure that there was no damage to the structures located near the site. Based on this experience, we will come up with standard procedures for implosion. Only the illegal multi-storied structures near storm water drains and lakes and those constructed in isolated areas will be demolished using this technology.”

Lack of coordination

Lack of coordination and safety measures was also exposed during the demolition attempt on Monday.

There was confusion regarding the time of the detonation. Amid last moment checks and a hurried dash to the site by some engineers and workers, Mayor B. Rammohan began the countdown and even before he could complete, the structure was imploded.

The structure, which was bent to one side due to the impact of the blast, was not cordoned off immediately. Even though there was a major risk of the structure collapsing endangering the lives of people, many were seen moving in and around the structure clicking photos.

A number of wooden panels which were inside the structure were also not removed before the implosion.