Hyderabad: The state government is planning to phase out cellar constructions in multi-storey buildings due to issues such as cellars flooding with rainwater and the need to pump out the water using motors during heavy rains. Additionally, cellar construction leads to increased construction costs. Currently, permission is granted to construct a maximum of five to six cellars in multi-storey buildings. The government has also identified seismic zones in the city, and experts have opined that construction should not take place in those zones. The government believes that prohibiting cellar construction could address these issues. A senior official mentioned that new laws will be introduced, and amendments will be made to building construction regulations.
In place of cellars, officials are suggesting the use of stilt structures (parking spaces built above the ground). It has been stated that permission can be granted for stilt structures with any number of floors, with flexibility in construction height. A town planning official noted that this type of construction has already been permitted under the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, where two to three stilt floors are allowed. While builders of residential houses are reportedly positive about the change, commercial builders are less interested. Ground floors are in high demand for commercial structures, and there is concern that dedicating space for parking could result in financial loss. Officials say that these changes can only be implemented if amendments are made to the law.
