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"Illegal buildings not a new phenomena in Kolkata": Firhad Hakim

  • Kolkata Mayor addresses illegal construction, highlights efforts to register 2,000 water bodies and enforce regulations
  • Structural engineers assess leaning buildings in Kolkata, with reports expected soon to ensure public safety measures
  • Mayor urges property buyers to verify RERA approval and building plans to avoid illegal constructions and accountability

24 Jan 2025

Kolkata’s Mayor, Firhad Hakim, recently provided detailed insights into the city’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal construction and address the issue of structurally unsafe buildings. Mayor Hakim acknowledged that several buildings in Kolkata, including those on Christopher Road, have been leaning for many years. He shared that structural engineers have been brought in to conduct thorough assessments, with their reports expected by Monday. Mayor Hakim emphasized that illegal construction, which has been a persistent issue, particularly in the 1990s, is now being actively monitored with the implementation of daily road maintenance to ensure public safety.

The Mayor further explained that Kolkata is home to over one lakh buildings, and while it is challenging to inspect each one, efforts are being made to address the most pressing concerns. He highlighted that over 2,000 water bodies in Kolkata have now been officially registered and are part of an effort to prevent illegal encroachment. In addition, a new roster duty system has been introduced to improve monitoring of construction activities, which aims to ensure that no illegal buildings are constructed moving forward.

To address the legal aspects of property ownership, Mayor Hakim stressed the importance of verifying building plans and approvals before purchasing property. He urged potential buyers to ensure that the buildings they intend to buy are RERA-approved and come with proper building plans. The Mayor emphasized that those who purchase illegally constructed properties will be held accountable. The approval process for new constructions has also been made more rigorous, with building permits now dependent on structural reports, soil testing, and evaluations from engineers. Only after these evaluations are completed will permissions be granted for new developments.

On the issue of unsafe buildings, particularly those in areas like Shakespeare Sarani, Mayor Hakim assured that the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is working closely with structural engineers to inspect and assess leaning buildings. The engineers are tasked with conducting detailed inspections to determine the extent of structural damage and assess whether any immediate action is needed. Despite previous instances of building collapses, the Mayor pointed out that there have been no fatalities in recent years, despite similar structural issues.

Addressing political concerns, Mayor Hakim responded to critiques from opposition leaders, stressing that the issue of illegal construction and structural safety has been an ongoing problem, not unique to the current administration. He assured the public that the necessary authorities are working to address the issue. The Mayor also commented on the recent Malda shooting, suggesting that the licenses for firearms involved in such incidents should be revoked, and stricter regulations should be enforced. In conclusion, he urged that discussions around public safety and urban development be conducted responsibly, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in handling such sensitive issues.

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Kolkata Mayor tackles illegal construction, unsafe buildings
Kolkata Mayor addresses illegal construction, highlights efforts to register 2,000 water bodies and enforce regulations





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