The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has formally sought police assistance in tackling the growing number of unsafe and unauthorised structures across the city. Mayor discussed this pressing need with the city’s police commissioner during a meeting at the civic headquarters, highlighting the severe risks posed by these deteriorating buildings to residents and workers alike. According to the KMC’s building department, civic demolition teams frequently encounter resistance from residents and occupants, making it increasingly difficult to carry out necessary demolitions and enforce safety standards effectively. Without adequate protection, KMC workers face considerable challenges, creating a pressing need for police backing to ensure these dangerous structures are dealt with efficiently and without confrontation.
With nearly 3,000 buildings in Kolkata classified as “high risk” by the KMC, including several located in densely populated neighbourhoods, the city’s building safety situation has reached a critical point. Many of these structures have either failed safety inspections or lack the necessary authorisations, creating risks of collapse and posing a danger to both residents and passersby. Comparatively, cities like Mumbai and Delhi have stricter enforcement measures in place for such buildings, leading to more proactive approaches to public safety. Despite previous attempts by KMC to conduct demolitions, the current approach has not yielded sufficient results due to the persistent interference encountered. This request for police intervention is aimed at ensuring that unsafe buildings do not continue to endanger the city’s urban landscape.
From a sustainability standpoint, the removal of unsafe and unauthorised buildings aligns with KMC’s commitment to maintaining a more resilient and structurally sound urban environment. While older, derelict buildings remain susceptible to weather conditions and pose health hazards, replacing these structures with sustainable alternatives could promote better living standards. Sustainable urban redevelopment has proven beneficial in enhancing quality of life and reducing environmental impact, as seen in similar initiatives in other metro cities. The KMC’s strategy reflects a broader urban sustainability approach, advocating for development that aligns with both environmental standards and public safety requirements.
As Kolkata’s urban expansion continues, the demolition of hazardous buildings not only safeguards residents but also aligns with civic goals of modernising infrastructure and creating a safer city. By involving the police, KMC aims to enforce regulations more effectively, reducing risks for both workers and occupants in the vicinity. This collaboration underscores a larger effort to prioritise safety within urban development and ensure that no unauthorised structure remains a danger to the community. For residents, the KMC’s approach to addressing these issues offers hope for a safer, well-maintained city that promotes a better quality of life for all.
