Kolkata Municipal Corporation's (KMC) Strategic Approach to Resolving Issues with Tilted Building on Christopher Road

In a significant update regarding the tilted building on Christopher Road, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is reassessing its previous decision to demolish the structure. Initially, KMC had issued a demolition order for the building, following concerns about its safety due to tilting caused by nearby construction. However, after further inspection, the authorities are now considering alternatives.

The building in question, known as Pushpanjali Apartment, was declared unsafe by the KMC in the previous week. Situated at 11/2 Christopher Road, the building has started tilting dangerously, with fears that its collapse could endanger the lives of the residents. On January 22, KMC officials ordered the immediate evacuation of the 12 flats on the premises. This order came after concerns arose about the tilt, which appeared to be caused by illegal construction work on a neighboring property.

Discovery of Structural Issues

The tilt was first noticed when the residents of Pushpanjali Apartment observed unusual structural strain. Upon further inspection, it was determined that a neighboring under-construction building had been built too close to the apartment complex, just under three feet away. This proximity and the unauthorized construction activities on the adjacent site caused a shift in the foundation of the Pushpanjali Apartment, triggering the tilting.

KMC authorities immediately sprang into action, ordering the demolition of the neighboring structure due to its severe violations of building norms. The building, which was still under construction, had grossly flouted the necessary permits, causing significant damage to the foundation of the existing building. An FIR has been filed against the promoter of the construction project, Daniel Lee, who, according to KMC officials, had not adhered to the required safety protocols and building regulations.

Change in Strategy

While the initial plan was to demolish the tilted building on the grounds of its instability, KMC officials have now indicated that much of the structure may be spared, following a reassessment by their engineering team. A structural engineer from KMC conducted a thorough inspection of the premises and assured that, based on the current analysis, the building could remain partially intact. The structural survey suggested that the tilt might not compromise the safety of the building up to the fifth floor. As a result, KMC has reconsidered its stance on the building's demolition, with a formal decision expected after the final report is submitted.

"We are now hopeful that the building can be saved, or at least parts of it," said a senior KMC official. "The structural engineer’s initial findings suggest that the tilt has not affected the lower levels, which means we could preserve most of the building and minimize the disruption to the residents."

The Role of the New Building

The new construction project next door, which has been the source of the tilt, remains at the center of the controversy. The building’s promoter, Daniel Lee, had allegedly begun construction without proper clearance and approvals. In response to these violations, the KMC is considering the demolition of parts of the new building to rectify the damage caused to Pushpanjali Apartment. This could include removing illegal extensions and addressing any structural defects caused by the unapproved construction practices.

KMC's decision to potentially demolish sections of the neighboring building highlights the need for stronger enforcement of construction regulations in the city. The unchecked development in many areas has led to instances where buildings have been constructed without proper planning, resulting in dangerous situations like the one on Christopher Road.

The Fate of the Residents

The evacuation of residents from Pushpanjali Apartment has caused considerable distress. Many of the tenants, who had invested their life savings in purchasing the flats, are now faced with the uncertainty of their future. Despite being assured that their homes may be spared, the fear of further complications remains high.

The apartments in question are modestly sized, with flats ranging from 450 sq. ft. to 650 sq. ft., and were priced between Rs. 13 lakh and Rs. 20 lakh. The apartments were built only two years ago, but due to the close proximity of the illegal construction, the safety of these homes has been compromised.

KMC’s intervention has brought attention to the need for more stringent regulations to protect the lives of residents in rapidly urbanizing areas like Kolkata. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether the residents will be allowed to return to their homes or whether further action will be needed.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing situation at Christopher Road highlights the serious impact of inadequate construction practices and the need for strict adherence to building regulations. As residents and local authorities work together to resolve the immediate concerns, it's clear that a long-term solution requires stronger urban planning regulations. Ensuring that these rules are followed, with firm penalties for violations, will be essential to prevent such issues in the future and safeguard the safety of residents in urban areas.

As the KMC awaits the final structural report on the tilted building, the residents of Pushpanjali Apartment remain hopeful that their homes will be spared from the demolition, and that their rights to a safe living environment will be upheld.