CHENNAI: Following significant cracks appearing in roads and buildings in Velachery, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) issued a stop-work order to Iyra Properties for damages due to inadequate construction practices.
According to a notice under the Town and Country Planning Act of 1971, GCC mandated the realtor to cease work on Seshadripuram First Main Road due to damage observed in roads, buildings, stormwater drains, and sewer systems.
GCC indicated that the roadways and stormwater drainage system collapsed as a result of improper piling and shoring practices at the site. IIT Madras has been engaged to assess the damages and recommend repairs.
“If compliance is not met with the notice, GCC will pursue legal action. This includes sealing the premises, seizing construction materials, auctioning seized items, prosecuting the owner, stopping usage, and recovering costs for restoration,” reads the notice.
Several homes along Seshadripuram First Street have seen cracks develop in buildings, garages, corridors, and walkways. M.C. Shrikkanthan, a resident of the Anmol Abinandan gated community, reported cracks emerging last week. “We contacted the builder, who promised to resolve the issue. However, the cracks worsened over time, and the vibrations became intolerable. We discovered that around 200 piles were being installed,” he mentioned.
Officials stated that the construction site, covering 50,000 square feet, is currently in its basement phase. This area, home to over 1,000 houses, has been cordoned off.
Regional Deputy Commissioner (South) Aftab Rasool, who inspected the site, noted the presence of black, clayey soil underneath a rocky surface. “Digging beyond a certain point is not feasible. The findings from IIT will clarify the situation,” he added, noting that IIT experts will visit the site Wednesday.
Ram Prabhu, chairman of the committee at the Directorate of Town and Country Planning, explained that construction piles require a depth of 20 meters at the center. If this space is insufficient, it can negatively impact surrounding areas. “There should be a five-foot setback for three-story buildings and a 24-foot setback for multi-story constructions,” he stated.
