On Tuesday, 6th August 2024, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) was alerted to a critical situation on Priscilla Street, Freetown, where a two-storey building was reported to be on the brink of collapse.
Gerald King, the NDMA’s Western Region Coordinator, led a team to the scene to conduct an urgent vulnerability risk assessment.
Our inspection revealed severe structural weaknesses in the building, which is owned by Dudley Cowan,” NDMA stated. “We observed significant cracks and detaching beams extending from the foundation to all four corners of the structure. These issues have seriously compromised its stability.”
The assessment confirmed that the building posed a severe risk not only to its occupants but also to the nearby community.
“In the event of a collapse, a nearby community bridge could be critically affected, potentially causing a major disruption,” the Agency warned.
During the assessment, the building’s occupants, including two families and the owner, evacuated voluntarily. All access points to the building and the bridge were promptly cordoned off to ensure public safety.
The building’s condition is deemed critical, and immediate action is required to prevent further risks.
“We have activated a coordinated response involving NDMA and other stakeholders to facilitate a controlled demolition of the building,” NDMA added. “This action is essential to prevent an uncontrolled collapse and protect both lives and property.”
This situation highlights the pressing need for swift intervention to address the risks associated with the compromised structure and to ensure the safety of the Freetown community.
