Rajuk finds cracks in column joints at the affected building

Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) today discovered some cracks in the main column joints on the ground floor of the building in Gulistan, where there was a deadly explosion yesterday.

Rangon Mondol, one of the authorised officers of Rajuk, said according to their primary observations, the seven-storey building is in a risky state now, and the slab of the ground floor has also collapsed.

However, Rangon added that because a thorough engineering assessment was not yet possible, they were unable to provide specific information about the building's current condition.

According to him, the city corporation is responsible for removing the building after the DSCC declares whether or not it is a risk.

Rangon said the locals had told them the building was 40-45 years old. They will be able to know about the exact information tomorrow on the working day as rescue operation is the first priority now.

The building's columns have been severely damaged, according to Ujjwal Mallick, Rajuk's chief engineer (implementation), and as a result, the structure is now dangerous.

According to Ujjal, who visited the site last night, treating the column or providing additional protection is required before beginning any work to remove debris from the building.

At least 17 people were killed and more than 100 injured in an explosion at the building in Gulistan area yesterday.