New Delhi: In a major move to curb illegal construction and strengthen safety enforcement, the Delhi government has decided to invoke provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, enabling authorities to take stringent action against property owners, commercial operators and government officials responsible for violations.
The decision comes in the wake of a series of incidents linked to unauthorised structures and safety lapses, including a devastating hotel fire in Malviya Nagar that claimed 21 lives, among them 12 foreign nationals. The tragedy has intensified concerns over compliance with building regulations and public safety standards across the capital.
Delhi minister Ashish Sood announced that the government will use the Disaster Management Act to impose tougher penalties on violators. Under the provisions, landlords and owners of commercial establishments found flouting official orders could face imprisonment of up to two years. The law will also cover unauthorised construction, failure to meet safety requirements and the operation of businesses without necessary approvals.
A key aspect of the new policy is the accountability of government officials. District Magistrates will be empowered to identify negligence and take action against officers who fail to enforce regulations or are found complicit in violations. Beyond suspension, officials may face recovery of losses through salary deductions, pension benefits, retirement dues and even personal assets if their actions or inaction contribute to loss of life.
The government has also formed joint enforcement committees headed by District Magistrates. These teams, comprising officials from multiple agencies, will inspect hotels, guest houses, banquet halls, restaurants and other commercial establishments. Businesses operating without valid permissions or posing safety risks could face immediate sealing and legal proceedings.
As part of the wider crackdown, all buildings exceeding the Ground+4 floor limit will undergo scrutiny to verify compliance with approved plans and safety norms. Structures with unauthorised floors or significant deviations may be sealed.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has intensified enforcement efforts, demolishing 82 illegal properties and sealing 43 others since June 1. Authorities have also issued more than 150 notices for unauthorised construction and misuse of properties, signalling a tougher approach toward violations across the city.
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