Politics · India Bureau
Delhi to Mandate Structural Audits for Old Public Buildings
Following a recent building tragedy in the capital, Delhi authorities are developing mandatory safety certification requirements for older structures housing public activities. The new policy aims to prevent future incidents through regular structural assessments.
LSN India ·
The Delhi government is moving to implement compulsory structural audits and safety certification for aging buildings that serve public functions, marking a significant shift in how the city addresses building safety concerns. The initiative comes in response to a recent incident that has heightened scrutiny of the condition of the capital's older residential and commercial structures.
Under the proposed framework, building owners would be required to conduct periodic structural assessments to verify the integrity of their properties. The safety certification process would help identify deteriorating conditions and necessary repairs before they pose risks to occupants and the public.
The policy is still in draft stages as government officials work to establish clear guidelines on audit frequency, inspection standards, and penalties for non-compliance. Officials are expected to consult with engineers, architects, and building management associations to refine implementation procedures.
The move reflects growing concerns across Indian cities about the aging building stock and inadequate maintenance practices. Delhi's older structures, many dating back several decades, have long been flagged by safety experts as requiring systematic evaluation to ensure occupant safety.