In response to Guwahati’s increasing flood crisis, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) is set to initiate random inspections of city buildings starting this month. The focus will be on ensuring compliance with measures related to rainwater conservation, groundwater recharge, and the preservation of green spaces. This directive was issued by the GMC commissioner and affects all types of buildings, including commercial, residential, educational, and industrial sectors. They are required to install and maintain rainwater harvesting systems and designated green areas, as outlined in the Guwahati Building Construction (Regulations) Bylaws of 2014 and the Assam Unified Building Construction (Regulation) Bylaws of 2022.
Assistant Commissioner Suhel Yasir highlighted that buildings often obstruct land, preventing rainwater from naturally soaking into the ground. This results in excess runoff that flows into drains or low-lying areas, thereby increasing flood risks. A properly implemented rainwater harvesting system can allow water to permeate into the ground, aiding in the replenishment of groundwater and minimizing runoff. However, authorities have found that many rainwater harvesting setups and groundwater recharge pits are poorly constructed or inadequately maintained. In addition, legally mandated green spaces are frequently repurposed for unauthorized uses, contradicting approved building plans. Regulations specify that a minimum of 20% of any given land must be allocated for tree planting and greenery. This requirement can be reduced to 10% for housing projects that designate at least 25% of the floor area ratio for affordable housing.
The GMC’s observations illustrate a concerning trend; mandatory rainwater harvesting structures and percolation pits are often not adequately established or sustained. Green spaces are regularly ignored or illegally utilized, which is against the approved plans. The recent directive also emphasizes that these inspections aim to enhance the city’s resilience to urban challenges, alleviate water shortages, and promote sustainability. Non-compliance could lead to severe penalties, including the revocation of occupancy certificates, sealing of properties, and possible legal action under the Guwahati Municipal Corporation Act of 2017. While compliance with rainwater harvesting is obligatory, GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania announced that the civic body will provide these systems at no cost to all government schools and economically disadvantaged households.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/gmc-to-inspect-buildings-for-rainwater-harvesting-standards/articleshow/121681569.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-06-07 02:39:00
