Ahmedabad: The state govt has proposed making it mandatory for all commercial constructions in the city to build staircases that are at least 2 metres wide.Currently, CGDCR (Comprehensive General Development Control Regulations) stipulate that the staircase width be 1.5 metres in commercial buildings below 25 metres in height, and 2 metres in buildings above that height.The amendment will make the 2-metre width mandatory in all commercial buildings regardless of height.Urban development and urban housing department issued a notification on July 28 amending CGDCR to increase the staircase width.Govt has sought objections and suggestions from citizens.An official said that commercial buildings not only house offices and shops, but also establishments like restaurants.The high footfall in such buildings, the official said, made it necessary to increase the staircase width.More people can leave a building in an emergency when the passage is wider, the official explained.Representations regarding this matter were also submitted by officials from municipal corporations across various cities.On another front, govt is plugging loopholes in rules for building bungalows.An official said a lack of clarity in rules is allowing some owners to submit construction plans for three-storey or five-storey bungalows, and later sell individual floors.The state govt has now proposed amendments to CGDCR, capping the height of bungalow-type constructions at 12 metres.Moreover, it has been proposed to classify residential structures higher than 12 metres as apartments. These structures will then have to maintain margin spaces and obtain fire NOCs.BOXBoosting safetyProposed changes in rules about staircase widths, keeping speedy evacuation in mindUse # Height of building (m) # Min. staircase flight width (m)Dwelling 1, 2a & 2b (for residential use) # Three floors, up to 12 # 1.0Dwelling 3 & 4 (for residential use) # <12 # 1.2Dwelling 3 & 4 (for residential use) # >12 & < 25 # 1.5Dwelling 3 & 4 (for residential use) # >25 # 2.0
