Notwithstanding setbacks and building laws help ensure that buildings are constructed at a safe distance from roads, neighboring properties, and other hazards, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries, enforcement staff least bothered to ensure that setbacks are maintained as per JMP-2032/UBBL-2021 & JMC Act 2000
JAMMU: A serious case of building irregularities has come to light in Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, where Virinder Sharma, son of Devi Dass Sharma, is constructing a residential building on plot 561/A without adhering to the mandatory setbacks. Despite approving the site plan, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has failed to take action against the owner, raising concerns about transparency and accountability under the Jammu Municipal Corporation Act, 2000 (JMP2032) and the Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2021 (UBBL2021).
According to details, Virinder Sharma obtained approval for a residential site plan from JMC vide No. 517/JMC/BS/2024-25 dated August 17, 2024, which included specific setback requirements. The owner has failed to maintain the mandatory setbacks, specifically: Front Setback: 3.96 meters required, but not maintained. Rear Setback: 2.01 meters required, but not maintained.The owner paid a residential fee of Rs 50,954, but the construction appears to be in violation of the approved plan.The JMC must take immediate action against Virinder Sharma for violating the building bylaws and ensure that the construction is brought in conformity with the approved plan. The public demands transparency and accountability from the JMC in enforcing the regulations and taking action against those who flout the law .It is essential to ensure that the municipal corporation takes prompt action to address these irregularities and uphold the rule of law.
It deserves mentioning here that observing setbacks and adhering to building laws in Municipal areas is crucial for several reasons. Setbacks and building laws help ensure that buildings are constructed at a safe distance from roads, neighboring properties, and other hazards, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Uniform building lines and setbacks contribute to the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods, making them more visually pleasing and enhancing the overall quality of life. Setbacks can help preserve natural habitats, trees, and other environmental features, promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Adhering to building laws and setbacks can help maintain property values by ensuring that buildings are constructed in a way that is consistent with the surrounding neighborhood. Building laws and setbacks are essential for implementing community plans and zoning regulations, which help shape the character and development of neighborhoods. Enforcing building laws prevents encroachment on public spaces, roads, and neighboring properties. Building laws ensure that buildings are constructed to withstand natural disasters and other stresses, reducing the risk of collapse and damage.
By regulating building practices, municipalities can promote sustainable development and reduce the environmental impact of construction. Building laws can help prevent the spread of diseases by ensuring that buildings are constructed with proper ventilation, sanitation, and waste management systems. By enforcing building laws and setbacks, municipalities can create more livable communities with better infrastructure, services, and amenities. Observing setbacks and adhering to building laws is essential for maintaining public safety, aesthetic appeal, environmental sustainability, property values, and community planning. By enforcing building laws, Municipalities can promote sustainable development, protect public health, and enhance community livability.
