New cracks linked to metro construction have delayed the return of residents to their homes in Sant Gervasi until September. Nearly 300 people remain affected.
In a troubling development for residents of Sant Gervasi, the discovery of new structural cracks has postponed the return home for many displaced families. Following a ground collapse behind the Verona pizzeria on Teodora Lamadrid Street, approximately 300 residents from eight buildings were evacuated three weeks ago.
The incident was triggered by ongoing tunneling work for the L9 metro line, which has raised concerns about safety and stability in the area. As of now, only some residents have been allowed back into their homes; those living at numbers 56 and 58 on Sant Gervasi de Cassoles returned on July 20. However, others are facing a longer wait.
Residents from Rubinstein Street and Teodora Lamadrid will not be able to return until at least September due to significant structural issues that require extensive repairs. The director of Barcelona’s fire department, Sebastià Massagué, reported that a recent inspection revealed a serious crack and cavity beneath one building that necessitates stabilization work throughout August.
This situation is reminiscent of past incidents in urban areas where construction projects inadvertently led to similar evacuations. For instance, in 2010, a major subway expansion in Madrid caused several buildings to be temporarily abandoned due to ground instability.
The local government is taking steps to support those affected. Pilar Díaz, the regional delegate for Catalonia, announced that 48 households who applied for early compensation will begin receiving funds shortly. Additionally, 16 businesses impacted by the disruption are also awaiting financial assistance while they continue incurring operational costs without any income.
Díaz confirmed that around thirty rental properties have requested rent suspension as they navigate this crisis. The financial responsibility for these compensations will ultimately fall on UTE Mandri, the consortium responsible for executing the L9 tunnel project.
The community remains anxious as they await further updates on when full repairs will be completed and when all residents can safely return home. In the meantime, local authorities are working diligently to ensure that those displaced receive necessary support during this challenging period.
For residents looking for information regarding housing assistance or updates on repair timelines, local government offices are available at Sant Gervasi’s community center during business hours.
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