In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for disseminating information, but it also comes with its share of challenges. One such challenge is the circulation of misleading content, which can often cause panic and confusion among the public. This blog aims to shed light on a particular incident where an old video of a building collapse in Shimla is being falsely circulated as recent footage of a building collapsing due to heavy floods in Himachal Pradesh.
The Incident Explained:
A video has surfaced on social media showing a multi-storey building collapsing in what appears to be a devastating incident. The video is accompanied by claims that it occurred during the recent flood in the Kachighati area of Shimla, caused by heavy rainfall. However, the truth is quite different.
The fact-checking process reveals that this video is not recent footage of a building collapse during a flood. Instead, it is an old video from Shimla’s Kacchighat area, dating back to September 2021. The building’s collapse was triggered by continuous rain, which weakened the soil beneath the surface, ultimately leading to its collapse. It is essential to note that the building had been evacuated before the incident occurred, ensuring that no lives were lost.
Misleading Links:
Several misleading links have been shared on social media platforms, contributing to the confusion and false narratives surrounding the incident. Two such links are as follows:
- Link 1 – Tweet by MithilaWaala (Archived here)
- Link 2 – Tweet by PotholeWarriors (Archived here)
It’s crucial to be cautious about the content we share and to verify its authenticity before spreading information further.
D-Intent’s Fact Checking Results:
To counter misinformation and provide accurate information to the public, D-Intent, a reputable fact-checking organization, investigated the incident. Their findings were as follows:
These fact-checking links present credible evidence that the video being circulated is indeed an old incident from September 2021, unrelated to the recent flood in Himachal Pradesh.
Conclusion:
It is evident that the circulation of misleading content can have severe consequences, particularly when it comes to creating panic among individuals facing challenging situations, such as heavy rainfall and floods. In this case, an old video of a building collapse in Shimla is being falsely portrayed as recent flood footage, creating unnecessary fear and anxiety.
As responsible users of social media, it is essential to fact-check before sharing any information and refrain from spreading unverified content. By being vigilant and promoting accurate information, we can collectively combat the spread of misinformation and maintain a safer online environment.
Also read- Don’t Be Fooled! Video Shared as Jammu & Kashmir Motorcyclist Arrest is Actually From Brazil
