Demolition of Multicomercio in Guayaquil is imminent after fire: 'We are looking for a quick way'
Officials in Guayaquil are pushing for the demolition of the Multicomercio building following a significant fire that posed safety risks.
The Demolition of the Multicomercio building in Guayaquil has become urgent after a fire on February 11 raised concerns about structural integrity. Officials from the government and the Municipality of Guayaquil, along with business leaders and academic representatives, convened to discuss the building's collapse risk and the immediate need for demolition to ensure safety in the area. Γlex Anchundia, the manager of Segura EP, confirmed that their priority is to demarcate a secure method for the building's demolition as quickly as possible.
Following the fire that escalated to a level three alarm, a portion of the Multicomercio building collapsed, highlighting the dangers posed by the remaining structure. The incident occurred in a warehouse that spans over 12,000 square meters, necessitating extensive safety measures, including the closure of nearby operations by the Guayaquil Fire Department. A working group has since been established to address the technical aspects of the demolition process.
This situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced in urban infrastructure safety and disaster response in Ecuador. As officials prioritize swift action to ensure public safety, the incident also raises broader questions about building codes and inspection processes in urban environments, particularly in areas vulnerable to fire hazards. Authorities are keen to address these issues promptly to prevent future incidents and maintain community trust in local governance.