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Wall Collapse at Beltola Market Claims One Life, Injures Three; Sparks Concerns Over City Infrastructure

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By AT News |

A section of a brick guard wall along the Bahini River in the Beltola Bazar area collapsed on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to three others. The incident occurred around 2 pm when the victims, all petty traders, were seated near the wall.

The deceased has been identified as 50-year-old Anju Rongpi, a resident of Khetri Borbitoli village in Kamrup (Metro) district. She was seriously injured in the collapse and later succumbed to her injuries at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). The three injured individuals have been identified as Muktar Deory (60) from 2 No. Chilaguti in Baksa, Laifan Boro (46) from Dangar Makha in Baksa, and Bhogila Rajbongshi (60) from Kohora in Kamrup (Metro). All are currently undergoing treatment.

The collapsed wall, estimated to be around 10 years old, was originally constructed by the Public Works Department (PWD). Local accounts suggest that the wall had been deteriorating for some time, and the recent desiltation work carried out by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation may have further weakened the structure.

The Beltola market, a key commercial hub that draws vendors and buyers from across the state, experienced brief disruption following the incident. Emergency services responded swiftly, and the affected area has since been cordoned off as a precautionary measure.

Preliminary investigations into the cause of the collapse have begun. The district administration has confirmed that a formal inquiry is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the failure of the wall. Authorities have also assured that monetary compensation will be provided to the family of the deceased following completion of the investigation.

This incident has brought renewed attention to the state of urban infrastructure in Guwahati, with residents and traders expressing concern over the lack of maintenance and oversight of critical public structures.

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