Anindita Chatterjee
Updated on: October 13, 2024 11:05 pm GMT
Ahmedabad’s aging buildings face a looming danger as property owners largely ignore a crucial mandate for structural stability inspections. The city’s Municipal Commissioner, M. Thennarasan, announced a significant requirement that all residential and commercial buildings over 15 years old must obtain a structural stability certificate within 15 days. However, a month after the notice was issued, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) reports no compliance from property owners.
Urgent Safety Measures Ignored
On August 17, the AMC issued the notice to boost the safety of Ahmedabad’s older structures amidst rising concerns about their condition. Unfortunately, the lack of compliance highlights a troubling trend.
- Background: The structural stability regulation has been part of the Ahmedabad General Development Control Regulations (GDCR) since 2014 and was reaffirmed in 2017.
- Enforcement Issues: Despite its relevance, the regulation has seen minimal enforcement, with many owners unaware of the requirements.
A senior official from the AMC, who wished to remain anonymous, pointed out the alarming reality that many structural stability certificates are typically filed only when buildings pose an evident safety risk, not as a standard preventative measure.
A Growing Safety Risk
The requirement explicitly states that all residential buildings taller than nine meters and any commercial structure over 15 years old are to be inspected. Yet, many structures have continued to deteriorate without inspections, putting both occupants and the public at risk.
The statistics surrounding compliance are deeply concerning:
- Zero: The number of structural stability certificates submitted since the deadline.
- Weak enforcement: The AMC and the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) have not taken effective action to ensure that property owners comply with the established regulations.
Concerns About Public Safety
The absence of safety inspections places older buildings in jeopardy. Residents continue to inhabit structures that have not been certified for structural integrity, leading to widespread concern for public safety.
Local authorities are now discussing the possibility of implementing stricter enforcement strategies to compel compliance. This is crucial for identifying and addressing potential threats before they lead to serious accidents or disasters.
What Happens Next?
As the deadline for compliance passes without a single certificate submitted, many property owners find themselves under scrutiny. The AMC is faced with the imperative of not only ensuring safety but also educating the public about the importance of these regulations.
- Increased Enforcement: Authorities are considering stronger measures to compel compliance.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Informing property owners about the significance of structural integrity could help mitigate risks.
Local government officials emphasize that maintaining the structural integrity of buildings through timely inspections and certifications is essential for safeguarding both residents and visitors to Ahmedabad.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The situation regarding structural safety certificates in Ahmedabad demands urgent attention. The lack of compliance puts both inhabitants and the broader community at risk. As the AMC looks into stricter enforcement measures, it is critical for property owners to recognize their responsibilities in maintaining their buildings.
Public safety is very important, so we need to be more aware, learn more, and follow the rules we have. City leaders must act quickly to stop any disasters that could happen if we ignore old buildings in our growing city.
