Human Failure

A recent tragedy at an IAS coaching centre in New Delhi, where flooding resulted in the deaths of three IAS aspirants, highlights the increasing issue of urban flooding exacerbated by human errors and inadequate infrastructure.

Regulatory and Safety Concerns

• Basement Usage Regulations: Building regulations in India generally restrict the use of basements for habitation, allowing them for storage, parking, and utility purposes. However, mixed-use buildings often see basements used for activities like coaching classes, which may not comply with these regulations.
• Permits and Permissions: The Delhi Master Plan 2021 mandates that basement usage for coaching centres requires clearance from fire authorities and other statutory bodies. There is uncertainty whether the coaching centre in question had the necessary approvals and if any changes in basement use were duly notified.
• Inspection and Compliance Issues: Often, users avoid notifying authorities about changes to avoid bureaucratic hurdles and potential bribe demands. This non-compliance contributes to unsafe conditions, as seen in recent urban flooding incidents.

Infrastructure and Flood Management

• Impact of Urban Flooding: Localized flooding in cities like New Delhi is becoming more common due to both natural topography and poor urban planning. Flooding often damages critical infrastructure, as seen in past incidents like the 2015 Chennai floods.
• Building Vulnerabilities: Basements are particularly vulnerable during floods due to limited access and poor ventilation. Effective flood management for such spaces requires specialized pumping systems and other mitigation measures to prevent water ingress.
• Resilience Measures: To enhance flood resilience, buildings should include features such as concrete walls, flood barriers, and non-return valves. These measures can prevent water from entering basements and other critical areas up to a height of 1.5 meters.

Mains Question

Q. In the light of the recent New Delhi coaching centre tragedy, analyze the impact of urban flooding on building safety and infrastructure.