Gaza Residents Live in Ruined Buildings Amidst Collapse Fears
Translated & summarized from Local Call by baba
Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are living in damaged buildings at risk of collapse, a situation worsened by Israeli bombardments and a lack of resources for repairs. The collapse of Al-Saada Tower, which killed at least 21 people, underscored the danger, with over 3,000 structures estimated to be unstable. Many families have no alternative shelter, forcing them to remain in precarious conditions despite the constant threat to their lives. Israel's restrictions on heavy equipment further complicate efforts to address the crisis.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are living in damaged buildings at risk of collapse.
- The Al-Saada Tower collapse killed at least 21 people, highlighting the severe danger.
- Over 3,000 buildings in Gaza are estimated to be unstable and in danger of falling.
- Ongoing Israeli bombardments further weaken already damaged structures.
- Lack of resources and Israeli restrictions on equipment hinder repair and reconstruction efforts.
- Many families have no alternative shelter, forcing them to remain in dangerous buildings.
Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are forced to live in damaged and dangerous buildings, with thousands more structures at risk of collapse. This precarious situation has been exacerbated by ongoing Israeli bombardments, which further destabilize already weakened structures. The approaching winter, with its rains and winds, poses an additional threat.
An incident on September 16th, when the Al-Saada Tower in Gaza City collapsed, killing at least 21 people, highlighted the severity of the crisis. According to Gaza's Ministry of Health, the number of fatalities from building collapses due to the war has risen to 61, with 270 injured. Approximately 5,000 families have been displaced from their homes.
The Gaza Public Works and Housing Ministry estimates that around 3,000 buildings in the Strip are in danger of collapsing. However, Israel's restrictions on heavy equipment entering Gaza, coupled with a lack of resources and budget for the local authorities, prevent adequate housing solutions and reconstruction.
Many residents, like the author of this piece, have had parts of their homes destroyed but continue to live in the remaining sections, making their own repairs. The fear of further collapse is constant, yet for many, these damaged buildings are the only option, as they cannot afford rising rents or find alternative shelter.
The article recounts the tragic story of Islam Iyad Azam, who, along with her unborn child and young son Rizk, was killed when the Al-Saada Tower collapsed. Her husband, Iyad Azam, survived with their two other children, Frayal and Abdul Rahman, who were rescued from the rubble. The family had sought refuge in the tower due to the poor condition of their tent.
Survivors like Mahmoud al-Sutari describe living in damaged buildings as a last resort, offering minimal protection from the elements compared to tents or the streets. Despite the constant danger, many families remain, lacking any viable alternatives. The article notes that while rescue and aid organizations respond to collapses, proactive measures to reinforce or safely demolish dangerous structures and rehouse their inhabitants are severely hampered by a lack of resources and equipment, which are often blocked from entering Gaza.
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