Tilting Buildings in Kolkata: A Growing Concern

Soil Conditions in Kolkata

Kolkata’s soil is predominantly clayey, which presents significant challenges for construction. Clay can cause subsidence if not properly managed. Many parts of the city are built on alluvial and lacustrine soil, which requires careful settlement before construction. Failing to address this can lead to uneven settling, resulting in buildings tilting.

Significance of Soil Testing

Understanding soil conditions is crucial for building stable foundations. However, soil testing is often neglected or poorly conducted. The costs associated with thorough testing discourage developers, and subpar testing can result in inaccurate assessments. This lack of reliable soil data leads to weak foundations and future structural problems.

Foundation Challenges

The proximity of new buildings to older ones can cause soil movement, affecting the stability of existing structures. Piling, which transfers the building’s load deeper into the ground, is a key technique to prevent this. However, many developers avoid it to cut costs, increasing the risk of structural failures.

Multiple Causes of Tilting

The issue of tilting buildings is complex, much like a multi-organ failure in medicine. Various parties, including engineers, developers, and administrators, are responsible. Economic pressures often result in compromises on construction quality. Additionally, many buildings are constructed with insufficient spacing, further heightening the risk of failure.

Temporary Solutions

While demolishing a leaning building might seem like a quick fix, it only addresses the immediate issue without tackling the underlying causes. Such measures do not prevent future problems. Areas like Garden Reach and Newtown highlight the urgent need for proactive urban planning.

Seismic Risks

Kolkata lies near seismic zones III and IV, raising concerns about earthquake resilience. Poorly constructed buildings in densely populated areas are particularly vulnerable during seismic events. This risk emphasizes the need for stronger building regulations and construction practices.

Moving Forward

A comprehensive, multi-faceted approach is required to tackle these issues. Strict enforcement of municipal regulations is essential. Regular inspections throughout construction are critical, and soil testing methods should be improved and subsidized. Holding all parties accountable is vital to ensuring compliance with safety standards.