Investigation into the collapse of a construction plaza that had been halted by MIVED in Santiago

Santiago.- The Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED) reported this Saturday that it is investigating the causes of the collapse of a part of the structure under construction corresponding to the Denis Commercial Plaza project, located on Salvador Estrella Sadhalá Avenue, near La Gallera street in this city The collapse recorded on Friday afternoon did not leave any injured people, although it generated alarm among residents and passers-by in the area due to the visible collapse of columns and walls on a public sidewalk. According to MIVED, through a statement sent to the media, the work had been monitored since 2024, after it was found to be operating without the permits required by Law No. 160-21, Law No. 687-82 and technical regulations R-021 and R-004. Therefore, Suspension of Works Notification No. 0126 was issued, instructing its immediate halt.

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"During the technical inspections carried out, it was verified that the construction was progressing without approved plans, without a building permit, and without inspection records", indicates the institution in an official note, warning that any attempt to resume will be conditioned to the presentation of a structural report validated by a certified professional. Following the event this Saturday, council members from this city's city hall, representing different political parties, appeared at the collapse site and confirmed that the Cabildo's Capitular Hall had visited the site weeks ago and ordered the halt of the works, after community members alerted about possible structural failures. Councilman Frank Medina stated that on May 14th, the Urban Planning Commission of the Council of Councilmen went to inspect the construction after receiving complaints from residents in the area. Meanwhile, the head of communications for the Santiago City Council, informed that they are awaiting a technical report from the Department of Urban Planning, while reiterating that this week the mayor, Ulises Rodríguez, announced the creation of a Works Supervision Department to ensure greater control over construction in the municipality. The Mived, meanwhile, reiterated that, in similar cases, it has proceeded to judicially request the demolition or eviction of buildings that pose a public danger, always within the framework of due process.

"Esta obra no podía continuar. Fue paralizada por la comisión que preside nuestro colega Ambiorix González, pero, lamentablemente, los responsables no acataron la orden y continuaron trabajando", sostuvo Cabrera.