Cracks Pose Collapse Risk, Houses Closed and Families Displaced in Residencial Integração, Uberlândia
In Uberlândia, Brazil, two houses have been closed by Civil Defense due to cracks posing collapse risks, leading families to evacuate their homes.
In Uberlândia's Residencial Integração neighborhood, two houses were closed on Monday, October 23, as the Civil Defense took preventive measures against the risk of collapse. This decision came after notable cracks appeared in residences, walls, and even the asphalt on Vinícius José da Silva Street. At least eight properties in the area showed structural damage, with some cracks being severe enough to create gaps that allowed light to pass through from floor to ceiling.
The City Hall of Uberlândia released a statement explaining that the closure of the two houses was a precautionary action. Authorities did provide recommendations for municipal shelter, however, the residents of the closed houses declined this assistance. This indicates that the families may have had alternative housing arrangements or felt secure enough to find their own solutions.
Additionally, the Municipal Secretary of Social Development reported that the residents in question are not in a situation of social vulnerability, thus there was no necessity for distribution of food baskets or other forms of aid. This scenario raises questions about the long-term structural integrity of the housing in the area and the challenges facing residents in ensuring their safety without external assistance.