The Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MoPPW) must take stern action against the violators at the earliest. Although the report has found no grave weaknesses in the quality of main structure of the housings, a rigorous checking must be done to ensure that. It is good that the MoPPW has already sought clarification from 149 contractors, including Class A contractors, in the face of rising complaints of cheating by the customers. The contractors are blamed for ignoring the construction agreement and the consultants for failing to fulfill their responsibility. It is sheer carelessness and reckless attitude on the part of the developers that cause such lapses. Given the weaknesses in the system of checks and lack of monitoring mechanism, developers easily take things for granted and in the bargain seriously compromise on public safety. They should know that they cannot get away all the time by doing wrong. The housing societies must follow laws or face penalties. There is just no two ways about it.
Another aspect that needs urgent attention in housing development area is the sustainability of the new buildings that are mushrooming in the valley. With urban migration on the rise, no doubt housing complexes and high-rise apartments will have its value and demand, but the most important thing is the safety of the people that cannot be compromised in any way. Human-made structures – buildings, bridges, power plants and so forth – must be designed and constructed as per proper guidelines and to withstand calamities like earthquakes that might hit the valley at any time. Given the congested and weak structures in the valley, a high magnitude quake has the capacity to cause massive death and destruction. Poor quality construction will be disastrous for Kathmandu residents. Serious damage can be averted if government takes strong action against the wrongdoers in this regard.
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