A collective lawsuit has been filed by nearly 300 residents affected by a sinkhole in Sant Gervasi, targeting the regional government for damages. The incident, linked to metro line construction, has left many without homes or businesses.
A significant legal battle is unfolding in the Sant Gervasi neighborhood as residents unite to file a collective lawsuit against the regional government following a devastating sinkhole incident. The sinkhole, which appeared on July 7 behind the Verona pizzeria on Teodora Lamadrid Street, has disrupted the lives of approximately 300 individuals from 93 families, prompting them to seek compensation for their losses.
The lawsuit is spearheaded by attorney Carmen Pérez-Pozo, who represents about 90% of those affected. She asserts that the Department of Territory will be responsible for addressing the claims rather than directly targeting the private construction companies involved in the metro line project. Pérez-Pozo argues that it is the government’s duty to ensure proper oversight and execution of such projects.
The ongoing construction work for metro line L9 has been halted indefinitely due to safety concerns stemming from the sinkhole. As negotiations commence between the Generalitat and a temporary union of companies executing this project, residents are left grappling with uncertainty regarding their future.
“We are currently assessing damages,” Pérez-Pozo explained. “This includes compensation for each day residents have been displaced from their homes and losses incurred by businesses unable to operate.” Two months post-incident, many families and six commercial establishments remain unable to return to normalcy.
The timeline for recovery remains unclear. Historical precedents suggest that similar incidents can lead to prolonged disruptions; for instance, after a notorious sinkhole in Carmel in January 2005, it took nearly two years before businesses could fully reopen. Residents fear they may face similar challenges as they navigate repairs and potential property depreciation linked to this latest disaster.
Pérez-Pozo emphasizes that while financial compensation will be sought, it will likely fall short of covering all incurred costs. In Carmel’s case, extraordinary expenses related to their sinkhole reached around 78 million euros. With ongoing negotiations and assessments underway, there is growing concern about how long it will take before life returns to normal in Sant Gervasi.
As discussions progress with Jordi Terrades, Secretary General of Territory, both sides aim for an amicable resolution. However, Pérez-Pozo warns that she will not compromise on what she deems fair compensation for her clients’ suffering.
To facilitate transparency regarding structural safety moving forward, an independent expert has been engaged by residents alongside government officials. This expert will evaluate ongoing repair efforts and ensure compliance with safety standards during reconstruction efforts.
The community’s resilience is being tested as they await further developments regarding their claims and recovery timelines. For those impacted looking for immediate assistance or information about resources available during this challenging time can reach out through local community centers or legal aid organizations dedicated to supporting affected residents.
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