Shimla, 09 September: The Himachal Pradesh government is going to impose city-specific rules for building construction in all urban areas, aimed at improving safety standards and infrastructure. As part of a comprehensive development plan, the state is focusing on ensuring structural integrity, proper resource management and addressing concerns over construction near water bodies.
Under the new initiative, development plans have already been prepared for Shimla and Kullu under the AMRUT-1 scheme, while Dharamshala, Una, Mandi, Solan, Nahan and Chamba cities will follow the guidelines outlined in the AMRUT-2 scheme. Besides, the government has now approved the formulation of development plans for all 59 municipal bodies in the state, ensuring that each city adopts rules tailored to its specific needs and geographical challenges.
Structural design a priority
A key aspect of the new development plans is the need for proper structural design and engineer’s report for the construction of any building. The measure has been implemented to prevent frequent damage and collapse of structures during natural disasters, which are often attributed to poor design and lack of professional consultation. In Shimla, for instance, the height and number of floors of buildings have now been restricted based on road access and available space.
Buildings can rise up to five floors in areas with five-metre-wide roads, while in places with limited or no road facilities, the height is restricted to two floors with an additional attic, taking the total height to about 10 feet.
New rules for construction near water bodies
In a significant change, the government has revised rules for construction near rivulets, ravines and rivers. Under the earlier rules, buildings were allowed to be built at a distance of three metres from ravines and five metres from ravines and rivers. The new guidelines state that buildings should now be built at least five metres from drains and seven metres from ravines and rivers, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the risk of water damage to properties.
Comprehensive urban planning
The state’s focus on improving urban infrastructure and safety was emphasised by TCP minister Rajesh Dharmani in the assembly. He highlighted the urgent need for a structured development plan for all urban areas, citing the importance of proper urban planning to ensure that essential services such as electricity, water and road access are incorporated in building designs.
The government aims to implement similar building plans in all cities, based on the Shimla Development Plan, to ensure uniformity in rules and safety measures across the state. By implementing these city-specific rules, the government is addressing both the safety of residents and the sustainable development of urban areas.
This push for a structured approach to construction comes at a crucial time, when many urban areas in Himachal Pradesh are witnessing rapid development. Proactive steps by the government can substantially reduce the risks associated with haphazard construction and unplanned urban expansion, thereby safeguarding both lives and property in the years to come.
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