The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) initiated a citywide survey of under-construction buildings last week, in response to a recent tragic incident in Babusapalya that claimed nine lives. Under the direction of Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, BBMP chief commissioner Tushar Giri Nath announced that if any illegal constructions or violations of sanctioned plans are found, work will be halted, and demolition orders will be issued. The BBMP aims to ensure the safety of buildings by inspecting for violations, substandard materials, and encroachments on protected land, with property owners bearing the cost of any necessary demolition.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) recently began a survey of all under-construction buildings in the city, with the aim of ensuring that there are no violations of sanctioned plans. This decision follows the recent collapse of a building in Babusapalya near Hennur, which resulted in the deaths of nine people.
Last week, Tushar Giri Nath, the BBMP chief commissioner, indicated that the survey would be conducted under the directive of Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar. He mentioned that if any illegalities were discovered during the survey, the BBMP would stop the construction work and issue demolition orders. Nath also revealed that 70 staff members involved in Khata-related tasks would be deployed to carry out the surveys of all under-construction buildings throughout the city.
According to sources within the BBMP, it was reported that in the Babusapalya incident, the property owner allegedly violated the approved building plan by adding extra floors. Similar violations may have occurred in other under-construction buildings as well. As a result, officers from the revenue wing will conduct inspections of these buildings. If they discover additional structures or floors constructed in violation of the sanctioned plans, property owners will be instructed to demolish them.
It was also mentioned that property owners will be responsible for covering the costs of all demolition work. Furthermore, the BBMP plans to evaluate the quality of construction. If property owners are found to have used substandard materials or if there are engineering or design flaws that could threaten public safety, they will be required to demolish the buildings.
Additionally, the BBMP will investigate constructions carried out on encroached land. A BBMP officer stated that action would be taken if any construction is found on encroached lakes or rajakaluves within the city.
This proactive measure by the BBMP underscores the importance of adhering to building regulations and maintaining public safety. By enforcing strict inspections and taking action against violations, the BBMP aims to prevent further tragedies and ensure the integrity of Bengaluru's construction practices. The initiative not only seeks to safeguard lives but also reinforces the civic body's commitment to responsible urban development and the preservation of public spaces.