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Bengaluru residents raise alarm over widespread illegal constructions and safety violations

Synopsis

Residents across Bengaluru are raising alarms about illegal construction and building bylaw violations. Notably, a senior citizen from Nandidurga Road Extension reported over 15 major violations, including illegal utility connections. Despite repeated complaints to BBMP and state officials, the building's owners added extra floors and a generator on an upper floor. Other areas, such as Jeyamahal and Basavangudi, face similar issues, with unauthorised gas cylinder facilities and encroachments on public roads. Residents demand stricter enforcement from authorities, emphasising that these violations pose significant safety risks and undermine community well-being.

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Residents across several neighbourhoods in Bengaluru are voicing their concerns about illegal construction and violations of building bylaws. The complaints often involve unauthorised structures, illegal utility connections, and safety risks linked to these violations.

One notable case has emerged from Nandidurga Road Extension, where a senior citizen reported a building with over 15 major violations, including illegal electricity and water connections. The complaints date back several years when construction began on the site with a plan for six floors. Local residents expressed their concerns to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and even raised the issue with the state's former chief minister. Despite these actions, the building's owners reportedly added extra floors and installed a generator on an upper floor. Furthermore, plans for a swimming pool have also surfaced.

The situation is not only problematic for residents living near the construction but also raises significant safety concerns. Local complaints highlight that the building has violated fire safety norms by having a generator installed, which could pose risks in emergencies. Additionally, there are claims regarding unauthorised water supply connections that have left one resident with a hefty water bill, despite their home being unoccupied. Reports suggest that breaches of building norms and illegal utility usage are widespread in neighbourhoods like Nandidurga and Jeyamahal Extensions.

Concerns extend beyond single buildings to multiple areas. Residents reported alarming situations, such as a gas cylinder distribution facility located in close proximity to residential buildings. With over 200 gas cylinders stored at the site, residents fear for their safety due to the fire hazards posed by the narrow lanes that are often congested, impeding emergency access.

In a separate yet related incident in Basavangudi, allegations have arisen regarding a builder's fraudulent conversion of a public lane into private property. Residents claim that a building has encroached upon a public road measuring 35 feet by 220 feet. This encroachment has attracted attention due to its potential value of approximately INR 70 crore. A senior citizen from the area indicated that the BBMP has conducted inspections and acknowledged that the building licence was not issued by them, implying that it may have been constructed with a fake licence.

The ongoing violations of building bylaws and unauthorised constructions are not only altering the landscape of Bengaluru but are also raising questions about regulatory enforcement. Residents are urging the BBMP and other concerned authorities, including Fire and Emergency Services, to take firmer actions against these violations. They emphasise that the lack of accountability is not just a matter of legality; it directly impacts the safety and well-being of the community.

As more complaints flood the BBMP, the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement of building regulations is becoming increasingly urgent. Local leaders are calling for community involvement to report breaches and demand safer living conditions. With ongoing concerns regarding building safety and unauthorised constructions, residents hope that their voices will lead to effective action, ensuring that their neighbourhoods remain safe and compliant with established regulations.

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