Firhad Hakim orders Baghajatin building demolition, orders legal action and resident rehabilitation plans

Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim provided detailed updates today on the ongoing demolition of a multistorey building in Baghajatin, after significant safety concerns were raised. The building, which has been under scrutiny for several weeks, was found to have severe structural deficiencies that posed risks to the residents. According to Hakim, the municipal authorities issued a notice under Section 401, ordering the regularization of the building's lift and stairs, which were improperly constructed. A sum of 32 lakh rupees was deposited to begin the regularization process.

The decision to demolish part of the building was made after a thorough review by municipal engineers, who identified unsafe construction practices in the lift and staircase installations. The authorities ordered the demolition of the fifth floor, which was found to violate building codes and present a threat to structural integrity. "The regularization and subsequent demolition were required to address the violations and ensure the safety of the residents," said Hakim. The demolition will be carried out in phases over the next 10-15 days, with oversight from a structural engineer from Jadavpur University to ensure that the work proceeds without further risk to the building's stability.

The contractor and lift company involved in the construction were found to have neglected safety protocols. Hakim confirmed that the promoter and lift company, Sohel, proceeded with the work without conducting the necessary structural tests and without the involvement of a licensed structural engineer. As a result, legal action has been initiated against the responsible parties. "The promoter and the lift company should have ensured that the building complied with all safety standards before proceeding," Hakim stated. "Their failure to do so led to significant safety risks for the residents."

In addition to the demolition process, the Mayor announced plans for the rehabilitation of the affected residents. Temporary housing will be arranged for those displaced by the demolition, with efforts being made to find suitable accommodations. Hakim confirmed that the authorities have been in discussions with the residents to ensure that their concerns are addressed. He stated that the residents hold partial ownership in the building, and their inclusion in the "Bangla" housing scheme is under consideration as a long-term solution. "We are committed to ensuring that the residents are provided with safe and secure housing," he added.

Hakim also highlighted that issues with unsafe construction are not limited to Baghajatin. He pointed out that similar concerns exist in other parts of Kolkata, particularly in areas on the outskirts of the city. The Mayor cited examples of buildings in regions like Alipore and beyond, where structural issues have been identified. In response, the Department of Municipal Affairs and Urban Development will issue a new circular to enforce stricter construction regulations. The circular will include requirements for mandatory soil testing, proper structural assessments, and the verification of construction companies' credentials before permits are granted.

The new regulations are part of the ongoing efforts to improve the safety of buildings in Kolkata. Hakim stressed that the municipality is working proactively to ensure that no further incidents occur due to unsafe construction practices. He concluded by stating that the current actions in Baghajatin are part of a broader strategy to improve public safety and uphold the city's building standards. The municipal authorities are committed to ensuring that future construction projects meet all required safety codes and that the well-being of residents is prioritized.