The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has imposed a ban on all digging or excavation work in the basements of residential and commercial units until further notice. This directive, announced by LDA Vice-Chairperson Indramani Tripathi on Monday, comes in response to widespread safety concerns regarding excavation practices.
Tripathi highlighted that numerous instances have been observed where safety measures are not adequately followed during basement excavation. This negligence poses substantial risks to the structural integrity of neighbouring buildings, especially during the monsoon season. The LDA’s decision aims to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of the urban environment. To address situations where basement excavation has already commenced, the LDA mandates that builders must take comprehensive measures to safeguard surrounding structures. This includes the use of sandbag stackings or reinforced cement concrete (RCC) retaining walls to provide stability and protection. Furthermore, builders are required to install pumps on-site to manage rainwater accumulation effectively. Proper drainage systems must also be established to prevent water from the catchment area from flooding the basements. The enforcement of these new regulations falls under the jurisdiction of the zonal officers and executive engineers, who have been tasked with ensuring strict compliance within their respective areas. In addition, the LDA has instructed officials to obtain approval for building maps that include basements from the Chief Town Planner’s Office. This measure is intended to ensure that all construction projects adhere to the highest standards of safety and planning.
This ban on basement excavation underscores the LDA’s commitment to maintaining urban safety and stability. The authority’s proactive approach seeks to prevent potential hazards that could arise from poorly managed excavation activities, particularly during the rainy season when the risks are exacerbated. The decision has been met with mixed reactions from builders and developers, who acknowledge the necessity of safety but also express concerns about project delays. However, the LDA maintains that the priority is to safeguard lives and properties, and that adherence to these regulations is non-negotiable. As urban development continues to expand in Lucknow, the LDA’s stringent measures serve as a reminder of the critical importance of following safety protocols in construction practices. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for other cities facing similar challenges, promoting a culture of safety and responsibility in the construction industry. In the coming months, the effectiveness of these regulations will be closely monitored, and adjustments will be made as necessary to ensure optimal safety outcomes. The LDA’s decisive action marks a pivotal step towards creating a safer and more resilient urban landscape in Lucknow.
