Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is preparing to amend the KMC Act of 1980, introducing more stringent regulations aimed at unscrupulous builders. This proposed amendment seeks to double the maximum jail term for offenders and significantly increase fines, reflecting the civic body’s determination to crack down on unauthorised building activities that compromise public safety.
According to officials from the KMC’s Buildings Department, the proposed changes are designed to strengthen the legal framework, empowering the corporation to prosecute builders who proceed with construction without the necessary approvals and those who employ substandard materials, posing severe risks to public welfare. The new provisions are anticipated to be presented at the KMC House meeting on Friday, where they are expected to receive swift approval. The impetus for these amendments stems from a tragic incident earlier this year when an illegal structure in Garden Reach collapsed, resulting in the loss of 13 lives. In response, KMC officials have been advocating for a revision of the current rules to prevent such disasters. “We need to make the law more stringent,” stated a KMC official. “This will reduce the likelihood of unscrupulous builders evading justice and ensure that those who endanger public safety are held accountable with non-bailable arrest warrants.”
The amendment specifically targets Section 401(A) of the KMC Act, aiming to provide more robust enforcement powers to civic officials. Under the existing law, the maximum punishment for severe violations of building regulations and public safety is five years in prison and a fine of up to ₹50,000. The proposed changes would extend the imprisonment term to 10 years and raise the fine to ₹10 lakh, reflecting the gravity of such offences and the potential risks posed to the community. Additionally, the KMC is revising its stance on the regularisation of illegal constructions. Under the updated rules, any building with more than 10% of its total construction area in violation of regulations will no longer be eligible for regularisation. This change aims to prevent developers from exploiting existing loopholes and making substantial alterations to sanctioned plans without proper authorisation.
The Mayor of Kolkata has also issued a directive for a stricter approach towards the legalisation of unauthorised structures, emphasising that minor violations may still be considered for regularisation, but major deviations from approved plans will not be tolerated. “We cannot allow this disregard for our building regulations to continue,” a KMC official affirmed. “This amendment is a necessary step towards safeguarding public safety and ensuring that all constructions in the city adhere to the highest standards of integrity and compliance.” The proposed changes underscore the KMC’s commitment to enhancing regulatory oversight and maintaining the safety and structural integrity of buildings within the city. As Kolkata continues to expand, these amendments are a critical measure to ensure that development is carried out responsibly and in accordance with the law. The civic body’s decision is expected to have a significant impact on the construction industry, compelling builders to adhere strictly to established guidelines or face substantial penalties.
