New construction safety measures in Himachal Pradesh enhance disaster preparedness.
The Himachal Pradesh government has introduced new safety regulations for construction activities near rivers to enhance disaster preparedness. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that all government buildings must be located 100 to 150 meters away from rivers to mitigate flood risks. Additionally, the state will conduct structural safety audits, implement earthquake-resistant standards for new constructions, and integrate emergency services with disaster management authorities. The cabinet also approved agricultural support initiatives and addressed drug abuse concerns by introducing mandatory dope testing for police recruitment.
The Himachal Pradesh government has announced a series of critical changes to construction norms and disaster preparedness measures aimed at enhancing public safety and minimizing property loss during natural disasters. This decision, articulated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during a cabinet meeting in Shimla, sets new guidelines for building near rivers and emphasizes structural safety statewide.
The newly approved policy requires that all government buildings must now be sited at least 100 to 150 meters away from rivers. This significant shift in regulation aims to protect communities and infrastructure from flood-related disasters. Additionally, a dedicated committee will evaluate historical settlements near rivers and recommend safety measures for residents living in these vulnerable areas.
The cabinet has further authorized comprehensive structural safety audits for buildings across the state. These audits will assess the ability of existing structures to withstand potential disasters, laying the groundwork for necessary upgrades and improvements. Simultaneously, earthquake-resistant building standards are set to become mandatory, as per recommendations from the cabinet panel on disaster management, chaired by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi.
In a move to bolster disaster readiness, the Himachal Pradesh government will integrate essential emergency services, including Home Guards, Civil Defence, Fire Services, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), into the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA). This streamlined approach is designed to provide a coordinated and effective response to emergencies, particularly in light of recent catastrophic events.
Beyond safety regulations, the cabinet approved plans to establish new milk processing plants in various locations such as Nahan, Nalagarh, Mohal, and Rohru, along with a milk chilling centre in Jalari and a bulk milk cooler in Jhalera. These initiatives are expected to enhance local agricultural capabilities and boost the dairy sector in the region.
In addition to construction regulations, environmental considerations have also been prioritized. The government plans to translocate 325 trees for the development of the Durgesh-Aranya Zoological Park in Bankhandi, Dehra, Kangra district. This step aligns with the government’s commitment to ecological sustainability alongside urban development.
In tandem with construction and agricultural initiatives, the cabinet discussed the introduction of mandatory dope testing for police recruitment, emphasizing a strict zero-tolerance policy toward drug abuse. Officials noted that drug-related cases constitute only 9% of the overall crime statistics in Himachal, a stark contrast to neighbouring Punjab, which reports 20%.
The recent flash floods that struck Mandi raised concerns during the cabinet meeting, prompting orders for immediate rescue operations to assist affected populations. Moreover, the cabinet applauded a Supreme Court decision to suspend the felling of apple trees in Shimla’s green belts while legal discussions continue.
To further elevate construction safety standards, new geological and structural design reports will now be mandatory for building proposals in urban areas. The Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department will require submissions from qualified engineers and geologists, ensuring all new structures adhere to the updated safety norms.
Additionally, updated setback rules will now require buildings to maintain distances of 5 meters from drains and 7 meters from rivers, an increase from previous standards of 3 and 5 meters, respectively. This change is aimed at mitigating flood risks and protecting infrastructure in flood-prone areas.
As part of regulatory measures, the High Court has mandated clarity on unauthorized constructions, which number over 25,000 statewide. Previously protected under retention policies, these structures are now classified as illegal under the new and stricter regulatory framework.
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