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Chennai civic body plans re-inspection of dilapidated buildings amid safety concerns

In light of the recent collapse of a 60-year-old building in the Royapuram zone, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has resolved to re-inspect and take action on 387 dilapidated buildings identified during a joint inspection with the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) in 2022. The incident has raised concerns among residents and activists who question the corporation's lax approach to the issue.

While the GCC has issued demolition notices to only 139 of the identified buildings, 236 more such structures remain in the Royapuram zone. The civic body has issued notices to just 82 of them. Following the building collapse, authorities have decided to issue notices to all the identified buildings and take necessary action to prevent similar incidents.

Municipal Administration Minister K N Nehru stated that the GCC conducts inspections every year to identify dilapidated buildings and will take appropriate action. CMDA Minister P K Sekar Babu acknowledged that many buildings without stability have been identified by officials in his department. He noted that attempts to demolish these buildings have been met with resistance from owners, some of whom claim their buildings house valuable items or are part of a trust. Others have taken legal action or are awaiting court decisions.

Chief Engineer S Rajendiran cited ongoing litigation as the primary reason for inaction over the years. He stated that the GCC would now re-inspect the buildings and have them examined by the Public Works Department for structural stability. Based on this scientific evidence, the corporation will issue notices and take necessary action to ensure the safety of residents and prevent future collapses.

In addition to re-inspecting the buildings, the GCC is also considering implementing stricter safety guidelines and regulations for old structures. This would include mandatory periodic inspections, penalties for non-compliance, and a more efficient demolition process to address potentially hazardous buildings.

The recent building collapse has highlighted the urgent need for improved monitoring and maintenance of aging structures in the city. Residents and activists hope that the GCC's renewed commitment to addressing the issue will result in tangible action and prevent further tragedies.

In conclusion, the Greater Chennai Corporation has pledged to re-inspect and address the issue of dilapidated buildings in the city, ensuring that appropriate action is taken to prevent further incidents like the recent building collapse. The GCC plans to work closely with the Public Works Department to obtain structural stability reports and act on scientific evidence to improve public safety. The implementation of stricter safety guidelines and regulations, as well as efficient demolition processes, will contribute to the overall security and well-being of Chennai's residents.

 

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