New Delhi: Delhi High Court heard the matter on Monday, September 7 regarding the incident of building collapse in Satya Niketan, Delhi. Meanwhile, while hearing the petition, the court has strongly reprimanded the Delhi government and MCD. Delhi High Court said that the administration will have to take concrete steps to prevent such accidents in future. Also, the next hearing of the case will be on September 25.
Court raised questions regarding PG
During the hearing, the High Court questioned the Delhi Government that when guest houses can be controlled under the rules, then why is there no system to regulate paying guests i.e. PG? The court pointed out the need to make clear rules regarding the size of PG, electricity connection and safety standards. The court said that students of colleges affiliated to Delhi University were living in the collapsed buildings in Satya Niketan. According to the court, due to lack of adequate hostels available in DU for students coming from outside, a large number of students are forced to stay in PG.
DU and MCD also responsible for the accident
Let us tell you, in this case, Delhi High Court commented that the responsibility of this incident cannot be limited only to the owner of the building. The court has also held Delhi University and MCD equally responsible for this. The court also asked DU as to how many hostels are available with the university and the government for students coming from outside.
The court said that the officers have to understand their responsibilities seriously. The court also expressed concern that illegal construction is being done in many PG buildings by ignoring the rules. Giving an example, it was said that a building which is allowed to have two storeys, is in many places made up to six storeys, while its foundation remains the same.
Order for safety audit in a week
The High Court has directed MCD to conduct security audit of all PGs and hostels in Delhi within a week. MCD has also been asked to check whether these buildings have necessary approvals or not, how many students are living there and whether the construction has been done legally or not. Instructions have been given to investigate this matter.
The court has asked the concerned departments to file the affidavit within 10 days. The court also expressed hope to speed up relief and rescue operations. Delhi Police and MCD assured the court that every possible effort is being made in the rescue operation.