Shanghai, China – A newly constructed 13-story apartment building in Shanghai, China, part of the Lotus riverside Complex, dramatically collapsed in 2009, becoming a local landmark and sparking a major investigation into construction practices. The incident, wich occured during heavy rainfall, left the building leaning precariously before ultimately falling, though its facade remained largely intact.
Construction on the Lotus Riverside Complex, consisting of 11 residential and commercial buildings utilizing the same 13-story model, began in 2007 with planned completion in 2009. The collapse stemmed from issues related to excavation for underground parking to the south of the building and land reclamation to the north. Heavy rains saturated the ground, and a 10-meter high pile of excavated soil exerted significant pressure on the building’s foundations, eventually sliding towards and undermining the reinforcing pillars.
Witnesses reported hearing a rumbling sound, describing the sensation as an earthquake, before witnessing the building’s collapse and the appearance of a cloud of dust.While no fatalities were reported, the incident caused widespread panic among prospective buyers who later cancelled purchases and sought refunds.
An investigation found six individuals guilty of construction errors and corruption related to the collapse. Despite the disaster, the leaning structure became a surprising tourist attraction, drawing onlookers fascinated by the seemingly impossible sight of a building appearing to have been “pushed” by a giant.
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(Source: AD Middle East, NPR, detik.com)