Vikas Chawla dies after plaster falls from tower in Greater Noida West.
Greater Noida West : A tragic accident in Arihant Amber Society, Greater Noida West, claimed the life of resident Vikas Chawla on Saturday evening. According to residents, Chawla was leaving the society on his motorcycle when a large portion of plaster suddenly detached from the upper section of a residential tower and fell on him. The impact reportedly caused him to lose control of his bike, which then crashed into a nearby wall. He suffered severe head injuries and was immediately rushed to a private hospital by residents. However, despite medical efforts, doctors declared him dead during treatment. The incident has sent shockwaves across society and raised fresh concerns about the safety of residential towers.
Residents allege long-pending complaints were ignored
Following the incident, residents expressed anger and grief, alleging that the problem of falling plaster was not new to the society. They claimed that several complaints regarding loose plaster, deteriorating external walls and safety hazards had been submitted to the builder and maintenance authorities over the years. According to residents, warnings about potential risks were repeatedly ignored and adequate repairs were not carried out despite repeated requests. Many believe that timely intervention and proper maintenance could have prevented the fatal accident and saved a life.
Questions raised over construction quality and maintenance
The tragedy has once again put the spotlight on construction quality and maintenance standards in high-rise residential projects. Arihant Amber Society consists of four towers and around 628 apartments, with possession handed over to residents in 2019. Residents have reportedly been raising concerns about construction defects and building deterioration for several years. Sources within the society said that after the Apartment Owners Association (AOA) took over maintenance responsibilities in 2023, issues related to structural defects were also raised before the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). Although repair work was reportedly initiated at one stage, residents allege that much of it remained incomplete and had been stalled for months.
Family devastated as society mourns loss
The sudden death of Vikas Chawla has left his family devastated. He is survived by his wife, children and elderly parents, who are struggling to cope with the tragedy. Residents described him as a family man and expressed deep sorrow over the incident. A sombre atmosphere prevailed throughout the community as neighbours gathered to support the grieving family and demand accountability. Many residents said that the loss has created fear among families who now question whether their homes are structurally safe.
Police investigation underway
Police have initiated an investigation into the incident and are examining all aspects of the case. The body was sent for post-mortem examination after legal formalities were completed. Officials from Bisrakh police station said statements are being recorded and the circumstances surrounding the incident are being verified. Police have indicated that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and any formal complaint submitted by the victim’s family.
Residents demand a structural audit of the entire society
In the aftermath of the tragedy, residents have demanded a comprehensive structural audit of Arihant Amber Society and strict action against those found responsible for negligence. They have urged authorities to conduct an independent technical inspection of all towers to identify potential risks and ensure the safety of residents. The incident has also renewed calls for regular structural audits of high-rise societies across Greater Noida West, where similar complaints regarding falling plaster and deteriorating facades have surfaced in recent years. Residents maintain that the safety of thousands of families cannot be compromised and that preventive action is essential to avoid future tragedies.