A newly constructed municipal crematorium in Shilaj has come under scrutiny after a large crack and ground settlement appeared on the main entry ramp, raising fresh concerns over the quality of civic infrastructure in Ahmedabad.
While structural failures during the monsoon are often associated with old and dilapidated buildings, this year even newly built structures have shown signs of damage.
After incidents at private construction sites, the latest concern involves a civic project completed only seven months ago at a cost of around Rs 17 crore.The settlement caused a section of the main approach ramp to sink, while the rear portion near a pond also collapsed.
Officials said the damaged section has since been demolished and rebuilt.According to the Additional City Engineer of the North-West Zone, the settlement occurred because an electricity or gas service line passed beneath the approach road.
The affected portion has now been reconstructed using plain cement concrete (PCC).The incident has sparked questions about the quality of construction and whether adequate soil testing and geotechnical investigations were carried out before work began.
Experts note that land located near lakes or water bodies typically requires detailed assessment of soil strength, groundwater levels and moisture content before construction.
Residents have demanded an inquiry into the project, asking whether all mandatory soil and safety tests were conducted before the crematorium was built. The incident has once again highlighted concerns over the durability and safety of newly developed civic infrastructure in the city.