The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has initiated a comprehensive survey across the city to identify buildings that are dilapidated, dangerous, and structurally unsound. This significant public safety measure places a particular emphasis on older sections of the city and institutional buildings, where large numbers of people live or congregate.
JMC Commissioner Devansh Yadav stated that the corporation had been receiving numerous complaints regarding aging and precarious structures within the Old City for an extended period. He noted that the risks associated with these buildings become especially acute during the monsoon season, a period characterized by increased rainfall and potential for structural stress. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the corporation’s proactive stance is a response to these persistent concerns and the potential for disaster.
“Over the past year, we have identified around 15 buildings that were unsafe, got them officially declared unsafe, and subsequently had those demolished,” Yadav informed PTI. He elaborated on the current initiative, explaining that ward-level joint teams have been constituted. These teams are comprised of engineers and enforcement officers who are tasked with the physical inspection and identification of potentially hazardous structures. The directive for these teams is to complete their assessments and submit detailed reports within a 15-day timeframe.
The scope of the assessments will be thorough, covering a range of structural deficiencies and other indicators of danger. According to Yadav, the teams will meticulously examine the condition of structural columns and foundations, identify signs of water seepage, and look for evidence of severe deterioration. Furthermore, the assessments will include an evaluation of landslide-related risks, particularly in areas prone to such geological events. The comprehensive reports are expected to include precise details regarding the location and ownership of the structures, a clear description of their physical condition, the specific nature of the danger they pose, and concrete recommendations for subsequent actions. The JMC Commissioner highlighted that the initiative would focus particularly on institutional buildings, given the significant number of people who may be exposed to risk in the event of a structural failure. This focus underscores the corporation’s commitment to safeguarding public spaces and facilities.
In the residential category, the survey will pay close attention to structures that are 50 years old or older, especially those exhibiting pronounced signs of dilapidation. This age criterion, combined with visible deterioration, will trigger a more in-depth inspection. Yadav emphasized that the on-site nature of the inspections is crucial for accurate reporting. “Since engineers will also be part of these teams, the inspection will be carried out on the spot, and the report will also be prepared at the site itself,” he said. This immediate reporting mechanism is designed to expedite the process and ensure that findings are documented while the conditions are fresh in the minds of the inspection teams.
However, the JMC Commissioner clarified that the demolition of every identified unsafe structure is not an automatic outcome of the survey. The process involves a nuanced approach where structural engineers will also evaluate the feasibility of securing unsafe buildings through retrofitting or structural strengthening measures. This suggests a tiered approach to remediation, prioritizing safety while also considering the potential for preservation and cost-effectiveness. The corporation aims to balance immediate safety concerns with long-term solutions for its urban infrastructure. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to urban renewal and the enhancement of public safety standards within Jammu, addressing concerns that have been voiced by residents and authorities alike regarding the integrity of older building stock in the city.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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