Tbilisi authorities begin evictions from ‘structurally unsafe’ buildings on Tvalchrelidze Street

Authorities in Georgia’s capital have begun evicting residents from several “deteriorating buildings” on Tvalchrelidze Street in the central part of the capital city, following expert confirmation that the structures “pose a serious threat” to human life.

According to a statement released by the National Bureau of Enforcement on Thursday, the five buildings in question were in a "black frame" condition and had been deemed fully depreciated. A report by the Samkharauli Forensic Bureau concluded that the buildings' load-bearing walls were compromised, creating a risk of collapse at any time.

“The buildings are entirely unsafe and endanger the health and lives of those residing within,” the statement reads. “This is backed by the official expert assessment.”

The eviction process, which has now been postponed twice through mediation efforts, is being carried out with the involvement of enforcement police, social workers, and the Bureau’s Department for the Protection of Parties' Interests. Authorities said dozens of visits were made to the site, and the needs of residents were individually assessed to direct them toward available state assistance.

The Bureau said negotiations had been underway with the creditor, who was reportedly willing - alongside state agencies - to assist with temporary rental housing for those living illegally in the buildings. However, some families declined the offers.

Among the 58 internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing at the address, 24 have already received state assistance through various programs. Applications have been submitted by another 29 individuals, with six having received positive responses. Some of the 39 families living on-site have already been made housing offers.

Authorities also noted that 53 additional families had occupied the buildings without residing there and had begun renovation works in recent months, allegedly in an attempt to claim compensation later.

The National Bureau of Enforcement has urged all individuals occupying the premises to voluntarily comply with court-ordered evictions and accept assistance offers. It warned that failure to do so would result in forced enforcement actions in accordance with Georgian law.

Police and enforcement officers were deployed to the site to oversee the operation.