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The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) is preparing to propose a mandatory structural audit for multi-storey buildings every three years during its first board meeting of the year. The proposal will make developers responsible for the audits, with accountability shifting to apartment owners' associations (AOAs) if maintenance is transferred. The policy will classify defects as major or minor, with clear timelines for rectification. Industry experts and residents believe this move will enhance building safety, especially in earthquake-prone regions like Delhi-NCR.
As the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) approaches its first board meeting of the year, scheduled for the coming days, one of the key items under discussion is a proposal for a compulsory structural audit of multi-storey buildings. The proposal is expected to be a central topic which has already been discussed in a preliminary meeting held by the Meerut divisional commissioner earlier this week. Advertisement
Sources within the GDA have confirmed that the proposal aims to make structural audits mandatory every three years for buildings. Under this proposal, developers will be required to ensure the audits are completed. In cases where the maintenance responsibility has been handed over to the apartment owners' association (AOA), the responsibility for the audit will shift to them. The proposal specifically recommends that reputable institutions like IITs, NITs, and other equivalent bodies conduct the audits.
Previously, the Housing Board adopted the UP government's structural audit policy, which was successfully implemented. Once the GDA board approves this proposal, the GDA is expected to follow suit, helping to ensure the structural safety of buildings while also clearly defining accountability for maintenance.
The policy will focus on identifying two major types of construction defects: major and minor. Major defects include issues such as cracks in the building's foundation or walls, while minor defects might include peeling plaster. If a major defect is found during the audit, the maintenance body will be required to begin repairs within one month and complete them within six months. For minor defects, repairs must also be completed within six months, with the costs borne by the maintenance body.
Residents, like Ashish Kumar from Supertech Icon Society in Indirapuram, have shared concerns about the structural integrity of buildings. Kumar noted instances where weak structures led to serious issues, such as plaster peeling off and ceiling collapses. He emphasized that developers often absolve themselves of responsibility once they hand over the building, leaving resident welfare associations (RWAs) or AOAs to struggle with the costs of repairs.
Kumar further added that while he isn't aware of a comprehensive mechanism to address structural issues, a proposal like this could be a game-changer, as it would hold the responsible parties accountable with specific deadlines for repairs.
Given that Delhi-NCR is located in seismic zone-4, buildings with structural deficiencies are particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. Kumar stressed that regular structural audits are crucial for ensuring the safety of residents in such an earthquake-prone area.
The proposed mandatory structural audits by the GDA are set to play a critical role in maintaining the safety and integrity of multi-storey buildings in Ghaziabad. With clear guidelines for handling both major and minor defects, the initiative is expected to place accountability firmly on developers and maintenance bodies. As a region prone to earthquakes, this move is timely and necessary to ensure that buildings remain safe for residents. Once the policy is passed, it could set a benchmark for other areas in ensuring structural safety.
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