GMC to inspect buildings for rainwater harvesting standards
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Guwahati: In response to city's escalating flood crisis, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) will begin random inspections across city buildings from this month to ensure compliance with rainwater conservation, groundwater recharge, and green preservation measures.
The order, issued by the GMC commissioner under the department of housing and urban affairs, stated that all commercial, residential, educational, and industrial buildings should install and maintain rainwater harvesting systems and designated green spaces. This enforcement is backed by the Guwahati Building Construction (Regulations) Bylaws, 2014, and the Assam Unified Building Construction (Regulation) Bylaws, 2022.
"Buildings cover the land, preventing rainwater from naturally soaking into the ground. Instead, excess runoff enters drains or low-lying areas, heightening flood risks. A proper rainwater harvesting system allows water to percolate into the ground, replenishing groundwater while minimising runoff," Suhel Yasir, assistant commissioner of GMC, said.
Authorities have observed that rainwater harvesting structures and groundwater recharge pits are often poorly constructed or neglected.
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Green spaces, mandated by law, are frequently repurposed for unauthorized use, contradicting approved building plans. According to regulations, at least 20% of land must be allocated for tree planting and greenery, with allowances for reduction in housing projects where a minimum of 25% of the floor area ratio is designated for affordable housing.
Based on the civic body's observance, rainwater harvesting structures, and percolation pits for ground water recharge are not properly constructed or maintained.
Even mandatory green spaces are neglected or repurposed for unauthorised uses, which are contradictory to the approved building plan.
"As per section 111 of the Guwahati Bylaws 2014, and section 111 and 114 of the Assam Unified Building Construction Bylaws, 2022, at least 20% of the land shall be utilised for tree plantation and greenery. This may be reduced to 10% only for housing projects where a minimum of 25% of floor area ratio is allocated for affordable housing," the directive states.
The directive also stated that inspections and enforcement measures aim to enhance urban resilience, mitigate water crises, and promote environmental sustainability. Non-compliance could result in penalties such as occupancy certificate revocation, property sealing, and legal action under the Guwahati Municipal Corporation Act, 2017.
While rainwater harvesting is mandatory for all individuals, GMC mayor Mrigen Sarania said the civic body would install these systems free of cost in all govt schools and economically weaker households.
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