A tragic incident in Delhi's Old Rajender Nagar has highlighted the widespread misuse of basement spaces across the city. Despite clear guidelines from the Master Plan of Delhi 2021 (MPD 2021) and Unified Building Bylaws (UBBL) 2016, violations are rampant. Popular coaching centers, including Drishti IAS in Mukherjee Nagar, have faced repercussions for illegal basement usage. City officials sealed five rooms in Drishti IAS after discovering unauthorized basement classes.
Guidelines on Basement Usage
According to MPD 2021, basements in residential and commercial buildings are strictly for storage, parking, and utility areas. However, Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajender Nagar violated these regulations by operating a library in its basement. Despite holding a completion certificate from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) restricting basement use, the center continued its activities.
Coaching Institutes Sealed
The following coaching institutes were sealed for unauthorized basement use:
- Drishti IAS
- IAS Gurukul
- Chahal Academy
- Plutus Academy
- Sai Trading
- IAS Setu
- Topper’s Academy
- Dainik Samwad
- Civil’s Daily IAS
- Career Power
- 99 Notes
- Vidya Guru
- Guidance IAS
- Eassy for IAS
Widespread Misuse and Potential Hazards
The misuse of basements is not limited to coaching centers. Across Delhi, basements are used as gyms, restaurants, offices, and more, posing significant hazards. While UBBL 2016 permits certain professionals, like lawyers and doctors, to operate in basements, and educational institutions to have study areas, strict compliance with local laws is mandatory.
Complaints and MCD's Response
A complaint regarding Rau’s IAS Study Circle's illegal basement use was filed on June 26. The MCD and Delhi government were notified, but MCD did not confirm receipt. An official noted the suspension of the MCD zone officer for another pending complaint. The MCD clarified that Old Rajender Nagar, being a commercial area, did not have permission for such basement activities, despite the necessary property documents.
Expert Opinions and Public Safety Concerns
Sanjay Gupta, a building laws expert, emphasized the rampant issue of illegal coaching centers and unauthorized activities in basements across Delhi. He pointed out the exploitation of loopholes in MPD 2021 and UBBL 2016 and the lack of proper implementation of rules.
Inder Kohli of Nehru Place market association warned about the dangers of improper basement usage, citing poor drainage systems and the risk of electrocution and other damages during rains.
Conclusion
The sealing of several basements and 13 coaching institutes in Old Rajender Nagar and Karol Bagh underscores the urgent need for strict enforcement of building bylaws to ensure public safety. Mayor Shelly Oberoi directed strict actions against such centers and emphasized consequences for any MCD officials found negligent. The Old Rajender Nagar incident serves as a critical reminder of the need for rigorous adherence to building regulations to prevent disasters.
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