Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has issued strict guidelines to regulate ongoing cellar excavations as part of its monsoon preparedness efforts. These excavations can pose risks to nearby structures, requiring precautionary measures such as soil strengthening, retaining wall construction, and barricading.

Officials have been instructed to inspect all excavation sites, verifying adherence to sanctioned plans and ensuring structural safety. Preventing water stagnation in cellars is a priority to avoid complications during heavy rains. Builders who fail to comply with safety measures will face immediate action, including work stoppages, cancellation of permissions, and legal proceedings.

Unauthorized or abandoned cellar excavations will be assessed for risks, and necessary closures will be carried out using construction and demolition (C&D) waste. Extra precautions will be taken for sites on sloping terrains and rocky areas to prevent landslides, with high-risk residents advised to relocate. Emergency evacuations will be conducted when required.

Additionally, GHMC will inspect labor camps near excavation sites to ensure worker safety. If camps are deemed too close to cellar digs, builders must implement safety measures or relocate workers.

GHMC urges developers to expedite cellar-related safety works before monsoon arrival and is considering a seasonal ban on excavations for public safety. Violations will lead to strict legal consequences, reinforcing the importance of compliance with excavation guidelines.With strict enforcement and monitoring, GHMC has warned that any violations will result in legal consequences.