Bad workmanship may have contributed towards balcony collapse

I refer to the story about the balcony that was reported to have collapsed onto a car that was parked beneath it in Main Gate Street, Victoria, which could have had tragic consequences for passers-by. It is expected that the authorities concerned with the safety of the public will not be fooled by the allegation that the balcony collapsed due to either a lightning strike and/or due to heavy rainfall.

Under normal circumstances, such a balcony, if loaded within its design limits, would not collapse the way it did, as a result of one of the two aforesaid causes or even due to both of them simultaneously.

Having seen the published photograph, depicting a section of the façade of which the balcony formed part, I have strong reasons to believe that the structure collapsed due to faulty workmanship and amateurish methods of construction. If I were living in Gozo I would come to the correct conclusion by a quick visit to the site in its virgin state following the accident, before any evidence is contaminated.

Although, luckily, the accident did not involve injuries, but only material damage, the authorities should investigate this accident thoroughly, because someone has surely carried out an incorrect method of construction, which should not be allowed to repeat itself.

A lesson should be given to the person or persons responsible for the accident.