Despite repeated warnings and court orders, several high-rise buildings in various localities of the city, including Ranikudar, Kadma, Sakchi, Baradwari, Sonari, and posh Bistupur, continue to flout basement parking rules, utilizing the space for commercial purposes.
The blatant misuse of basement areas for commercial activities has prompted the local administration to resume its demolition drive against unauthorized usage. This initiative follows a similar drive conducted two years ago, which aimed to rectify rampant violations of basement space usage.
The Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) has identified a total of 21 buildings for violations, primarily concerning the misuse of basements designated for parking. Notices have been issued to the owners of these buildings, demanding the immediate cessation of commercial activities and the restoration of the spaces for their intended purpose.
The court order, which underscores the necessity to adhere to basement norms outlined in the National Building Code, has spurred the JNAC into action. According to these norms, 85 percent of the space in a basement must be allocated for parking purposes, while the remaining 15 percent can be utilized for private security guards and generator sets.
However, many buildings have been found to be in violation of these regulations, with basement areas being converted into commercial hubs instead of parking spaces. This not only exacerbates the already strained parking situation in the city but also poses safety hazards and contributes to traffic congestion.
The administration's decision to resume the demolition drive underscores its commitment to enforcing regulations and ensuring the proper utilization of infrastructure. It aims to curb the unauthorized commercialization of basement areas and promote compliance with established norms to enhance urban planning and development in Jamshedpur.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the administration's initiative, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations to maintain order and safety in the city's urban landscape. They hope that strict enforcement measures will deter future violations and contribute to the creation of a more organized and efficient urban environment for all residents.
He pointed out while carrying out the survey we are getting the building in question videographed so that effective action can be taken in the court of law against the violators.
Rakesh Kumar, who is a resident of the city had filed the PIL claiming that the civic body was not serious about the violation of the building code and had sealed numerous buildings' additional floor set up in deviation of the approved building plan.
According to sources in the JNAC, due to using the basement for commercial purposes instead of using it for parking, roads in front of the buildings remain occupied with the vehicle parking.
The sources said the building where the basements are being used for running restaurants, shops or office purposes will be taken to task.
