Mohali, December 24, 2024: In the aftermath of a building collapse that claimed two lives, authorities in Mohali are intensifying their efforts to tackle unauthorised construction. Notices have been issued to numerous violators, with officials committing to decisive action against hazardous and unapproved structures.
A senior official revealed that approximately 30 notices were served over the last three months across five villages. “The focus is on identifying and addressing violations. In densely populated areas, we will seal illegal high-rises to ensure safety, while demolition is being considered for less populated locations,” the official noted. A dedicated helpline (9463775070) and email address (municpalcorporationsasnagar@gmail.com) have been set up to facilitate public reporting of such violations.
Mayor Addresses Fire Safety and Building Regulations
Mayor Amarjit Singh Jeeti Sidhu convened a high-level meeting to discuss safety concerns surrounding unauthorised multi-storey structures. Accompanied by Senior Deputy Mayor Amrik Singh Somal and MC Commissioner T Benith, the mayor urged stricter oversight of construction activities.
“Village bylaws permit only three-storey buildings, yet many have violated these rules, constructing multi-storey structures both inside and outside the lal dora boundaries,” said Sidhu.
He warned of heightened fire risks in such buildings and directed fire officials to inspect their preparedness. “We’ve also halted several projects where construction was underway without approved plans,” Sidhu added.
Internal Accountability Under Scrutiny
The building branch, tasked with ensuring compliance, faces increasing scrutiny after it overlooked an illegal basement excavation linked to the recent building collapse.
Commissioner T Benith has sought an explanation from the department and assured disciplinary action once the investigation concludes. “Neglecting such violations compromises public safety and will not be tolerated,” an MC official said.
DC Pushes for Region-Wide Enforcement
During a review meeting, Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain emphasized the need for consistent monitoring and enforcement of building laws across the district.
“Approving blueprints isn’t enough—officials must conduct timely inspections to ensure ongoing constructions comply with approved plans,” Jain stated.
She also appealed to the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) to strengthen vigilance over areas beyond municipal jurisdiction.
For rural regions under gram panchayats, Jain pledged to address unauthorised structures through the rural development department, noting that dangerous construction practices posed unacceptable risks to residents.
Building Collapse Investigation Ongoing
Meanwhile, law enforcement has arrested two property owners linked to the collapse, while the contractor, Suresh Kumar, remains at large.
Investigations revealed unsafe excavation on an adjacent plot, owned by one of the arrested individuals, destabilized the ground and led to the tragedy.
Police confirmed that the arrested individuals face charges under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Mohali SDM Damandeep Kaur is heading the inquiry and is expected to submit her findings within three weeks.
