Dear All,
Just a quick note.
The explosives contractor did what he was told to do, but the problem was caused by the heap of debris from the concrete breaker not being removed, which was left at such an acute angle that it acted as a first class ramp. Had the ground been level it would not have rolled, and it would have helped if the lower part of the cut in building had been fully done.
It was a brave operator on the excavator who did the cutting work. To have worked even from the relative remoteness a machine with such an 'overhang' was a risk in itself.
If you look closely you will see the hoppers within. If these were right through the structure -which they seem to be - one is talking about a very strong structure, particularly as all seems to be cast concrete. A well built structure to cope with the hopper weights, and also to control humidity. I am aware of a multi storey car park that was pulled down a few years ago in the GB, and it was done from the top down: more expensive yes, but less risk to surrounding property... the nature of the 'design for purpose' of the Turkish structure would have made this extremely difficult.
In fairness to the demolition people, a difficult structure to cope with. The only real error was not making sure the ground was flat for it to fall on.
Regards, Bernard
