Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Write an introduction about demolition activities.
• Discuss legal and ethical issues related to demolition activities.
• Ensure a well-organized format, articulating each aspect clearly and precisely.
• Write a holistic conclusion

Introduction

Demolition activities are the process of tearing down or dismantling buildings or structures, which are often necessary for urban development, renovation, or disaster recovery. However, demolition activities also involve complex legal and ethical issues that need to be considered and addressed by the parties involved, such as the owners, contractors, workers, authorities, and the public.

Body

• Some of the legal considerations for demolition activities are:
  • Obtaining necessary permits and approvals from relevant authorities, such as municipal corporations, environmental agencies, heritage committees, etc.
  • Following the rules and regulations for waste management, such as the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which mandate segregation, collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal of demolition waste in an environmentally sound manner.
  • Ensuring the safety and security of workers, residents, bystanders, and property, by taking measures such as conducting risk assessments, providing personal protective equipment, barricading the site, etc.
  • Respecting the rights and interests of the owners, occupants, and stakeholders of the demolished structures, by giving them adequate notice, compensation, relocation, or rehabilitation, as applicable.
  • Avoiding any damage or disturbance to the surrounding environment, such as water sources, wildlife habitats, historical monuments, etc.
• Some of the ethical considerations for demolition activities are:
  • Preserving the cultural and historical value of the structures, by consulting with experts, communities, and heritage groups, and exploring alternatives to demolition, such as restoration, renovation, or adaptive reuse.
  • Minimizing the social and economic impacts of demolition, such as displacement, loss of livelihood, disruption of services, etc., by engaging with the affected people, providing them with information, support, and opportunities, and ensuring their participation and consent in the decision-making process.
  • Promoting the sustainability and circularity of the construction industry, by reducing the consumption of natural resources, maximizing the reuse and recycling of demolition waste, and adopting green and innovative technologies and practices.
  • Upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability, by ensuring transparency, compliance, and monitoring of the demolition activities and addressing any grievances, complaints, or disputes that may arise.

Conclusion

The ethical dimensions of demolition activities encompass worker safety, regulatory compliance, subcontractor accountability, and the preservation of heritage and community well-being. Urban development must prioritize cultural identity preservation, resident well-being, and ecological sustainability to avoid significant losses and disruptions.