Kolkata’s Leaning Buildings

February 1, 2025

In recent weeks, over ten buildings in Kolkata have been reported to be tilting. This alarming trend marks issues in construction practices and urban planning. Experts attribute these problems to a combination of technical failures, administrative negligence, and socio-economic pressures. The situation demands urgent attention to ensure safer urban development.

Soil in Kolkata

Kolkata’s soil is primarily clayey, which poses challenges for construction.
Clay can lead to subsidence if not properly managed.
Many areas of the city are built on alluvial and lacustrine soil. This soil type requires careful pre-construction settlement. If not addressed, the risk of differential settlement increases, causing buildings to tilt.

Importance of Soil Testing

About soil conditions is essential for stable foundations.
However, soil testing is often neglected or inadequately performed.
In some cases, the costs associated with thorough testing deter developers.
Poor-quality tests can lead to inaccurate assessments.
This lack of reliable soil data contributes to inadequate foundations and future structural issues.

Foundation Challenges

The proximity of new buildings to older ones can cause soil movement, impacting existing structures. Piling is important technique that transfers building loads deeper into the ground. Despite its importance, many developers avoid piling to reduce costs. This decision increases the risk of structural failures.

Multi-Faceted Causes of Tilting

The phenomenon of leaning buildings is akin to a multi-organ failure in medicine. Responsibility lies with various parties, including engineers, developers, and administrators. Economic pressures often lead to compromises in construction quality. Many buildings are constructed with minimal spacing, exacerbating the risk of structural failure.

Temporary Solutions

Demolishing a leaning building may seem like a solution. However, it only addresses immediate concerns without tackling the root causes. Such actions do not prevent future occurrences. Areas like Garden Reach and Newtown illustrate the need for proactive measures in urban planning.

Seismic Concerns

Kolkata is situated near seismic zones III and IV, which raises concerns about earthquake resilience. Poorly constructed buildings in densely populated areas are at greater risk during seismic events. The increase in seismic risk necessitates stronger building regulations and construction practices.

Way Forward

A multi-pronged approach is essential for addressing these issues. Municipal regulations must be strictly enforced. Comprehensive inspections at all construction stages are vital. Improved soil testing methods should be mandated and subsidised. Accountability among stakeholders is crucial to ensure adherence to safety standards.

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