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West Bengal government introduces stringent guidelines for safer building demolitions

Synopsis

The West Bengal government's urban development and municipal affairs department has introduced a set of 19 guidelines to regulate building demolitions in congested residential areas. Under the new norms, demolition work is prohibited at night, and strict adherence to noise and air quality standards is mandated. The move comes in response to the observed lack of safety measures during building demolitions, contributing to air and noise pollution. The guidelines address concerns such as uncontrolled use of equipment, dust pollution, and unauthorized felling of trees. Additionally, the regulations prohibit demolitions during heavy storms or rain, emphasizing safety precautions for both workers and residents.

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The West Bengal government's urban development and municipal affairs department has introduced comprehensive guidelines to regulate building demolitions in congested residential areas. The move comes as a response to the observed proliferation of new buildings emerging from the demolition of old structures in congested residential zones like Salt Lake, often lacking proper safety and precautionary measures and also contributing to heightened levels of air and noise pollution.

Local residents have raised concerns including injuries caused by debris, dust pollution due to the uncontrolled use of equipment for breaking concrete and brickwork, and unauthorized felling of trees without permission from the forest department, leaving them scattered on roads.

In response to these pressing issues, the authorities have devised a comprehensive set of 19 guidelines. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety of the surrounding environment and the well-being of residents, emphasizing responsible and regulated demolition practices.

Among the key guidelines is the prohibition of demolition work during night time, aligning with the intent to minimize disturbances for residents. Additionally, strict control over noise levels and air quality parameters, in accordance with existing rules, serves to mitigate the adverse impact on the local ecosystem.

Recognizing the potential dangers associated with heavy storms or rain, the guidelines explicitly state that no building situated in inhabited areas should be demolished under such weather conditions. To enhance safety measures, it is mandated that a warning device be installed in the area to alert workers in case of any impending danger, further underscoring the importance of ensuring the well-being of all parties involved in the process.

The guidelines also address environmental concerns by emphasizing that trees should not be felled without proper permission from the forest department. This move seeks to preserve the green cover and prevent the indiscriminate cutting of trees during demolition activities. Such responsible practices align with broader sustainability goals and contribute to maintaining a balance between urban development and environmental conservation.

In essence, the West Bengal government's introduction of these comprehensive guidelines marks a significant step toward regulating and improving the safety standards associated with building demolitions in congested residential areas. These guidelines aim to foster responsible urban development practices, ensuring the well-being of both the environment and the community.

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