Malad collapse-affected seek shelter, financial aid

Mumbai: More than 100 residents of Ambedkar Nagar, including victims of the Malad wall collapse, along with Samyak NGO organised a silent rally Thursday seeking permanent shelter and compensation.

Students of Nirmala Niketan and DTSS college also participated in the rally. Anubhav Mumbai, which is associated with Nirmala Niketan, donated utensils and other goods to the residents.

Initially, the police asked the organisers not to hold the rally though prior permission was sought. Yogesh Bole of Samyak NGO and the organisers said, “Initially, the police did not allow us to hold the rally saying it will cause a law and order situation. Later, we signed a letter agreeing to take responsibility if such an incident took place. Following this, the police permitted us to hold the rally.”

The rally was organised to demand permanent shelter for residents and increase compensation for the loss of house.

Kamlesh Vishwaka-rma, who lost his home in the incident, said, “I have three children. My elder daughter is studying in standard 12.  She cannot study because we neither have a home nor books. I have lost my home in the incident and now there is no shed for us. We want a permanent home.”

The compensation for the material losses is very less. “They are giving only Rs 5,000 which will not help. We are demanding at least Rs 1 lakh per family,” said Mr Bole.

A teacher at a local coaching class and resident Sunita Kirmide said, “Everyone has lost everything. Students are in real trouble as they have lost their results, books and other documents which they will need for their further education.”