CM Suvendu Adhikari clarifies G+5 audit applies only to high-rise buildings, not residential houses

Following the collapse of an under-construction warehouse in Taratala, the state administration announced a series of safety measures aimed at strengthening construction oversight and preventing similar incidents. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that building plans would be cancelled if construction norms were violated, emphasizing that human lives are of paramount importance. He stated that the government's objective is not to halt urbanisation but to ensure that all construction activities comply with prescribed safety standards. The Chief Minister also said that, subject to weather conditions, authorities would attempt to complete the ongoing rescue operation at the Taratala site by Friday night. The National Disaster Response Force is leading the rescue operation with support from the police and other agencies.

As part of the immediate response, the administration has suspended construction activities for the next month in designated areas of Taratala, Baranagar, South Dum Dum, and Kamarhati. Officials stated that an investigation into the warehouse collapse is underway and that strict action will be taken in cases where violations of construction safety norms are established. The temporary suspension is intended to facilitate inspections and strengthen compliance with existing building safety regulations in the affected areas.

The Chief Minister also clarified that the state's ongoing building audit is limited to high-rise structures that are G+5 (Ground plus 5) or taller and does not apply to ordinary residential houses or small residential buildings. He said the audit will focus on buildings that accommodate large numbers of residents or occupants, with inspections covering fire safety systems, lighting arrangements, water availability, emergency exits, and other essential safety infrastructure to assess structural preparedness and emergency response capability.