At least 9 dead after church roof collapses in Mexico, officials say
NPR Online NewsAPR 2023
Buildings in Mexico are fundamentally flawed — design failures and government corruption have claimed hundreds of lives over the past few decades. Structures throughout Mexico are susceptible to earthquakes, yet numerous studies have shown that Mexico doesn’t have adequate construction regulations. Addtionally, research shows that officials in various areas have turned a blind-eye in inspections for bribes. This latest incident is reflective of systemic failure.
Mexico actually has quite robust regulations and guidelines for construction, but unfortunately some very strong earthquakes have caused tragic building collapses and destruction. Of course, some buildings are poorly constructed, and there are some corrupt officials who ignored failed building inspections, but the existence of a few outliers isn’t indicative of a systemic problem.