Date:17/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/01/17/stories/2006011702031900.htm

Back Forum for changes to Act to prevent violation of building norms

Our Bureau

Mangalore , Jan. 16

THE Citizens Forum for Mangalore Development has stressed the need for amending the Karnataka Municipal Act to prevent the violation of building norms.

Addressing presspersons here on Monday, Mr Sylvester D'Souza, member of the core group of the forum, said that amendment to the Karnataka Municipal Act is necessary to give powers to local bodies to seize and acquire illegal buildings and floors that have violated building norms.

The practice of regularising the illegal constructions for a hefty penalty has been responsible for widespread violations of building norms, he said.

Stating that the Union Government has identified Mangalore as a `highly earthquake-prone urban centre in seismic zone III', he said the Dakshina Kannada district administration is preparing a comprehensive disaster management plan for the district.

"But in contrast to this initiative, high-rise buildings in contravention of all safety norms have been mushrooming all over the city. This has created concern and fear in the minds of citizens," he said.

Mr D'Souza urged the Commissioner of the Mangalore City Corporation to demolish 10 buildings, which are in various stages of construction, despite objections by the Department of Fire Safety and licences being denied to them.

The Corporation should not provide civic amenities such as water and drainage connections to buildings that are in violation of building norms, he added.