On 22.10.2014, a tragic incident occurred in Bengaluru when an under-construction seven-storey building collapsed, resulting in the deaths of eight people and injuries to six others. The collapse, exacerbated by heavy rains and hazardous conditions, not only claimed lives but also caused significant resource damage and economic loss, complicating rescue efforts and revealing serious issues in construction safety and regulatory compliance.
Beyond the immediate human tragedy and social harm inflicted on the victims’ families, the disaster resulted in substantial economic setbacks through wasted materials, labour, and investment. The loss of resources like cement and steel leads to financial costs and environmental damage. Rebuilding efforts will further increase expenses and carbon emissions, hindering sustainability goals.
According to Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, the building was constructed using poor civil engineering practices and without obtaining the necessary approvals from municipal authorities. Additionally, it was erected on a 60/40 plot, further compromising its structural strength.
The Causes of Collapse
One of the primary reasons for building failure is lack of adherence to established norms and standards, such as the National Building Code of 2016 (NBC 2016), which is designed to ensure structural safety, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The NBC 2016 provides comprehensive guidelines for building design and construction, focusing on essential aspects like material quality, site planning, structural integrity, and disaster resilience.
Other key factors behind the collapse:
- Built without necessary approvals from municipal authorities.
- Absence of required zoning permissions led to violations of urban planning guidelines.
- Ignored load calculations and improper planning increased collapse risk.
- Lack of proper quality control led to the use of substandard materials.
- Inadequate foundation design compromised structural stability.
- Insufficient supervision and oversight failed to ensure compliance.
- Absence of licensed civil engineers resulted in poor safety enforcement.
Accountability and Legal Implications:
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that those responsible for the illegal construction—owners, contractors, and others—will face strict legal action, calling the incident a “big crime” and a serious breach of safety regulations. He plans to conduct a comprehensive survey of all under-construction buildings in Bengaluru to identify unauthorized projects and stop ongoing illegal constructions. Shivakumar emphasized the need for stricter oversight of building permits and enforcement of zoning laws, instructing registrars to refuse property transfers for buildings lacking proper approvals.
A thorough forensic investigation is essential to uncover the root cause of the collapse. Key aspects should include:
- Examination of construction materials
- Structural design audit
- Foundation integrity check
- Compliance with Nation and Local Building Regulations
Recent Incident Reinforces the Need for Right Civil Engineering Practices
The tragic collapse of the seven-storey under-construction building in Bengaluru highlights the importance of adhering to legal and regulatory frameworks in construction. It emphasizes the need for regulatory compliance, where all projects must secure necessary permits and approvals to ensure safety and proper land use. Regular safety inspections during construction are essential to maintain standards, while engaging qualified engineers can help prevent the use of substandard materials and practices. Furthermore, risk management should incorporate assessments for potential natural calamities, ensuring structures can withstand adverse weather conditions.
The Karnataka Professional Civil Engineers Act – Steering Consortium (KPCEA-SC) is a collective body dedicated to upholding right civil engineering practice in Karnataka, so that incidents like this can be avoided.
Key Civil Engineering Practices To Be Adhered
Soil Testing
- Perform soil testing to determine soil type and load-bearing capacity.
- Use results for foundation design and construction methods.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with NBC 2016 guidelines.
- Obtain all necessary building approvals and permits.
- Adhere to local zoning laws and land use regulations.
Design Standards
- Hire qualified civil engineers and architects.
- Conduct thorough structural analyses and load calculations.
- Apply the right structural design as per project requirements.
Quality Materials
- Use certified materials that meet quality standards.
- Conduct regular material testing to ensure reliability.
Construction Supervision
- Conduct frequent inspections during construction.
- Implement quality control measures at every stage.
Safety Measures
- Perform risk assessments and establish comprehensive safety protocols.
- Provide safety training on hazardous conditions and equipment for workers.
Emergency Preparedness
- Develop clear emergency response plans for potential calamities.
- Ensure the availability of first aid and medical support on-site.
Natural Calamity Considerations
- Design structures to withstand local environmental conditions (e.g., heavy rains, floods, earthquakes).
- Incorporate drainage and water management systems to prevent flooding.
- Use flexible building materials and designs that can absorb and dissipate seismic forces.
- Assess soil conditions and stability to avoid erosion or foundation failure during extreme weather.
Documentation
- Maintain detailed records of approvals, inspections, and any design changes.
- Document justifications for modifications to original plans.
Post-Construction Evaluation
- Conduct final inspections before occupancy.
- Monitor structural integrity regularly after completion.
Public Awareness and Whistleblower Protection
- Encourage communities to report unsafe practices without fear of retaliation.
Considerations for Buyers
Public awareness is necessary, as buyers and investors need to verify the legitimacy of construction projects before committing. Here are key considerations for buyers while buying a house:
Verify Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure that the property has obtained all necessary permits and approvals from municipal authorities.
Review Building Plans
- Request and examine the sanctioned building plan to confirm adherence to safety and zoning regulations.
Assess Construction Quality
- Inquire about the materials used and the quality of construction practices employed by the builder.
Check Developer Reputation
- Research the developer’s track record for completing projects safely and legally.
Understand Land Zoning Regulations
- Verify that the property complies with local land use and zoning regulations.
Conduct Pre-Purchase Inspections
- Hire qualified professionals to conduct thorough inspections before purchasing to identify potential structural issues.
Evaluate Emergency Preparedness
- Check if the building design considers natural calamities and incorporates necessary safety measures.
Way Forward
The collapse of the seven-storey building in Bengaluru highlights the importance of adhering to established civil engineering practices and regulatory frameworks in construction. It serves as a warning about the risks of illegal construction, where safety measures are often compromised. Ensuring compliance with local regulations, engaging qualified professionals, and conducting thorough inspections can significantly reduce the chances of structural failures. Additionally, public awareness is essential; buyers must verify the legitimacy and safety of construction projects.
