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The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has launched mandatory safety and structural audits for high-rise buildings over 15 metres tall and more than five years old, following the 2023 Harmilap Tower collapse that claimed eight lives. As per new bylaws, owners must conduct audits every five years through LDA-approved firms and rectify any deficiencies within a set timeframe to avoid penalties. The audits cover structural risks, life safety, and fire protocols. Public input, including 1,100 suggestions, is shaping ongoing reforms-such as a proposed increase in road width requirements. The initiative underscores LDA's commitment to urban safety, accountability, and responsive governance.
In a decisive move to enhance urban safety, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has initiated comprehensive safety and structural audits for the city's ageing high-rise buildings. This action follows the implementation of updated building bylaws mandating periodic inspections for multi-storey structures, a response to the tragic collapse of Harmilap Tower in Transport Nagar last year, which resulted in eight fatalities. Advertisement
The new regulations stipulate that buildings over 15 metres in height and older than five years must undergo safety audits every five years. Building owners are responsible for the audit costs, which vary based on plot size. The LDA has empanelled seven consultancy firms authorized to conduct these assessments. Should an audit reveal structural or safety deficiencies, owners are obligated to address them within a specified timeframe, failing which they may face penalties.
The audits encompass critical evaluations, including risk identification, potential threats to life or property, and the effectiveness of fire safety protocols. This initiative also considers public feedback; approximately 1,100 individuals have submitted suggestions and objections during the bylaw drafting process. A prevalent recommendation is to increase the minimum road width for high-rise constructions to 18 metres, a proposal currently under review by a government committee.
This proactive approach by the LDA aims to prevent future incidents akin to the Harmilap Tower collapse and ensure the structural integrity of Lucknow's high-rise buildings, thereby safeguarding residents and maintaining public trust in urban infrastructure.
By holding building owners accountable and integrating public input into regulatory frameworks, the authority demonstrates a commitment to proactive governance and community engagement. This initiative not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also sets a precedent for other cities grappling with ageing infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of continuous oversight and community involvement in urban development.
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