The Riga municipality has received 61 applications for repair assistance from owners of a building affected by a gas explosion, which partially collapsed in January.
Riga municipality officials announced that they have received 61 applications from owners of a residential building that was damaged in a gas explosion earlier this year. The explosion, which occurred on January 2 in Torņakalns due to an illegally damaged gas pipe, led to the partial collapse of the building's upper floors and roof, resulting in fatalities including the individual responsible for the illegal connection and a worker from the gas company 'Gaso'. Those affected can apply for financial assistance of up to 10,000 euros to help with repairs, as stated in the municipal regulations.
However, the disbursement of these funds has not yet commenced. It is contingent upon the completion of structural stabilization of the affected building before residents and officials can safely enter to assess the damages and repairs needed. After securing the structure, the State Police will be allowed inside to perform their investigations, and then the impacted residents may return to their homes to evaluate the state of their apartments.
Local officials explained that the support given will be based on an evaluation of each individual apartment's condition and the necessary repairs. The incident underlines the importance of adhering to safety regulations regarding gas connections, and it highlights the implications of illegal activities that can lead to tragic outcomes for both individuals and communities.
