Lahore: A nine-member committee on Monday expressed its concern over the non-availability of structural plans for Hafeez Centre; claiming that in the absence of said documents it was impossible to assure the traders and the government of the structure’s long-term stability, ‘especially during an extreme event’, according to news sources. The committee expressed these concerns and recommended partial reopening of the plaza after a preliminary report was submitted to the city administration.
The committee further recommended the preparation of ‘as-built’ structural plans/drawings (through in-site studies) and to hire a qualified consultant to access the structural stability of the building. The body is being led by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA)’s chief engineer.
The report stated that the entire eastern portion from the basement to the top floor needed to be ‘cordoned off completely for general users and the business community’. It was highlighted that since the multiple building spans exhibited increased sagging with time, the eastern building portion of the building should be equipped with the required supporting material under the supervision of an expert consultant.
Regarding the western side of the plaza, no fire-related damage appeared in visual screening of the building. However, it was advised that after the adoption of the precautionary measures, the building may be utilised as per the previous business routine.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
