The Altair Building in Colombo, once celebrated as an architectural marvel by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, is now facing serious allegations of neglect, financial mismanagement, and safety risks, raising concerns among its residents.
According to a report by Daily FT, residents have highlighted dangerous fire hazards, inadequate security, and financial exploitation as critical issues. The most alarming concern is the risk of fire accidents, which could endanger hundreds of residents living in the twin towers—one 63 floors and the other 67 floors.
Adding to the controversy, developer Ravi Todi has reportedly refused to guarantee the safety of the residents, despite his company being linked to a fire incident at Kolkata’s Amari Hospital a decade ago.
Following increasing pressure from residents regarding fire safety, a fire training program was conducted on December 10, 2024. However, an official report from the fire department identified multiple serious defects in the building, putting the lives of nearly 400 residents at risk.
Concerns over security breaches have also escalated. On January 25, residents reported that over 300 unauthorized individuals entered the building, raising fears about their safety. Furthermore, the building also accommodates tourists, which residents argue compromises the exclusivity and security of their homes.
Many homeowners, who purchased their apartments under the promise of luxury living, now express disappointment and frustration, stating that security lapses have become a regular occurrence.
With growing anxieties over both fire risks and security vulnerabilities, residents are calling for urgent intervention to ensure their safety and protect their investments.
