In a decisive move following the directives of the Ranchi High Court, SDO Parul Singh has launched a stringent crackdown on building code violations in the city. This sweeping action has left building owners in a state of panic as the administration targets illegal commercial use of basements and unauthorized constructions.
The court order, aimed at rectifying rampant misuse of basement spaces, has spurred the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) into action. A total of 21 buildings have been identified for violations, primarily focusing on the misuse of basements designated for parking. Notices were issued to the owners of these buildings, mandating the immediate cessation of commercial activities and restoration of the spaces for their intended use.
SDO Parul Singh, overseeing the enforcement of the court's directive, emphasized the seriousness of the violations. "We are committed to enforcing the High Court's orders. Action will be taken against the misuse of basement parking spaces as stipulated," she affirmed. The SDO's firm stance has been evident as teams swiftly moved in to inspect and seal non-compliant basements.
She informed that after Hotel Centre Point and Dayal International, the team today surveyed Shatabdi Tower and Suzuki Showroom in Sakchi and orders have been given to them to clear the basement.
While speaking to the media, she said that despite these efforts, some building owners appear to be flouting the regulations brazenly. Reports have emerged of ongoing construction in some multi-storey buildings, despite being sealed by authorities for violating the sanctioned building plans. This blatant disregard for the law has raised questions about the effectiveness of the ongoing enforcement actions.
The crackdown has sent shockwaves through the community of building owners, many of whom are now scrambling to comply with the regulations. Panic is palpable as owners hastily attempt to convert commercial basements back into parking spaces to avoid further penalties.
One building owner, preferring anonymity, expressed his frustration, "We were given short notice to make significant changes. While we understand the legal requirements, the timeline and immediate action have left us in a difficult position."
In an unexpected twist, certain buildings continue to defy the law, with construction activities proceeding unabated even after sealing orders. This defiance not only undermines the authority of the JNAC but also poses serious safety risks. The persistence of these illegal activities has prompted calls for more stringent monitoring and tougher penalties.
The ongoing operations led by SDO Parul Singh are a part of a broader effort to bring Jamshedpur's urban landscape in line with legal standards. The SDO reiterated that compliance with the court's orders is non-negotiable. "Our primary goal is to ensure that building regulations are adhered to strictly, and any deviations will be dealt with accordingly," she stated.
As the enforcement continues, the administration is also focusing on raising awareness among building owners about the legal requirements and the importance of adhering to them. The SDO's office has planned a series of meetings with stakeholders to address concerns and provide guidance on compliance.
According to sources in the JNAC, due to using the basement for commercial purposes instead of using it for parking, roads in front of the buildings remain occupied with the vehicle parking. The sources said the building where the basements are being used for running restaurants, shops or office purposes will be taken to task.
As per the basement norms of the National Building Code, 85 percent of the space in a basement has to be used for parking purposes and remaining 15 percent space has to be used for keeping private security guards and generator sets.
