By Jude Michael
Worried about the growing number of collapsed buildings in the capital territory, the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority, ACTDA, has issued what appears to be a riot act to all those building houses in its area of jurisdiction. This was contained in a 13-point directive to developers and builders in the Awka Capital Territory.
The directive, signed by Charles Ekwunife on behalf of the MD/CEO of ACTDA, aims to prevent building collapses and ensure public safety. The key points include: mandatory soil, material, and structural integrity tests for buildings exceeding two floors; submission of five copies of building plans, including one to the Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory Agency; raft foundation requirements for buildings above two floors in Ifite and Agu-Awka layouts.
Others are: non-destructive tests for ongoing projects with structural defaults or defects; revalidation and recertification of building approvals; engagement of certified structural engineers for projects; notification of project commencement, at least seven days prior.
Also included is partnership with COREN for project inspections and certifications, and builder’s Liability and Public Liability Insurance requirements.
To this end, developers have been given a deadline of October 15, 2024, to submit their building project permits/approvals for revalidation and recertification, with a warning by ACTDA that non-compliance would result in severe consequences.
This move by ACTDA is seen as a step towards ensuring public safety and preventing building collapse in the Awka Capital Territory which has been on the rise in recent months.
