PUNE, 6 NOV. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has introduced a new policy and set of regulations for the demolition of old buildings, aiming to address the significant public nuisance caused by dust, noise, and traffic issues during these activities.

The need for these rules arose because proper safety measures and trained personnel are often neglected when old structures and bungalows in the central peth areas and suburbs are torn down to make way for new, towering constructions. The article notes that a majority of redevelopment and demolition work is often carried out by an alliance of political figures, individuals with criminal tendencies, and builders, making ordinary citizens hesitant to file complaints despite the inconvenience.

Following a request and persistent follow-up from MNS General Secretary Hemant Sambhus in July, the PMC's Construction Department prepared the new policy, which has now been approved by Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram. Compliance with these regulations is now mandatory for granting permission for new construction on the demolished site.

Key Regulations for Building Demolition:

Safety Barrier: Erect protective metal sheets (patra) with a height of 25 feet around the demolition site boundary.

Security: Appoint a full-time security guard at the site

Neighboring Structures: If a demolition poses a risk to an adjacent building, that building must be vacated.

Dust Control: Implement measures to prevent dust, such as regular water spraying and installing a sprinkler system.

Environmental Care: Ensure precautions are taken to prevent harm to the environment.

Mandatory Notification: Provide written information about the commencement of demolition work to the neighboring societies, Police, and Fire Brigade.

Traffic and Transportation: Cover all debris and materials being transported with green cloth to prevent scattering.

Documentation: Submit photographs of the demolition work to the PMC.

Final Certification: A Structural Engineer must submit a certificate confirming that the demolition was completed correctly from a technical and safety perspective.

Hemant Sambhus of the MNS has called for strict enforcement of these new regulations and urged the Commissioner to personally monitor their implementation to ensure the safety and convenience of citizens.

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