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Demolition cloud looms over abandoned buildings in UAE

Abu Dhabi - Abu Dhabi Municipality said during 2019, it had ordered the demolition of 70 abandoned buildings.

The Abu Dhabi Municipality has urged owners of dilapidated and abandoned buildings that distort the city's appearance to either renovate them or replace them with new ones.
The municipality said during 2019, it had ordered the demolition of 70 abandoned buildings and 389 other old structures that were in bad shape.
The civic body warned that it will continue to bring down more such old buildings if owners don't take necessary measures.
The municipality said the dilapidated structures that include residential blocks, villas and other establishments were distorting the image of residential districts and streets and had become incompatible with the urbanisation drive and high-class tourist facilities in the city.
"Owners of old and abandoned buildings in Abu Dhabi city and suburban areas ought to take corrective actions towards such structures in cooperation with the municipality and other parties concerned," the municipality said in a statement.
"These buildings distort the urban appearance of the city and contribute to the pollution of the environment and the inconvenience of residents, besides posing health hazards to nearby inhabitants."
Reports in respect of such buildings, which cause impending danger, will be referred to the committee for the issuance of appropriate decisions as per the prescribed procedures and will be vacated, if required.
Buildings targeted under the demolition campaign include those abandoned for prolonged period of time and the ones that have become eyesores, marring the urbanisation of Abu Dhabi and suburban areas.
The municipal authorities earlier said the old and abandoned buildings have become a burden and a source of inconvenience for residents due to the accumulated dust and waste, growth of weeds, and the breeding of insects and rodents, which undermine the health and comfort of the residents.
Demolition of old buildings is carried out by reputable contractors who are required to follow hazard control and safety measures in razing these structures.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com