Anambra State Physical Planning Board says the rate of building collapse has drastically reduced in the State in the last three years.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Barrister Chike Maduekwe, made the observation in Awka, while speaking on the activities of the Town Planning Authority in the State.
Barrister Maduekwe said the higher index of building safety in the State has been achieved with greater enforcement of standards through strong support from Governor Willie Obiano.
He asserted that for anything one wants to build in the State, one must get a permit and this is for the Board to make sure that the developer is building properly in the right place, especially with regards to the clause of the land and the layout.
According to the Executive Secretary, for instance, one cannot put a gas plant in a predominantly residential area.
He observed that while continued public enlightenment was necessary, the experience of the three years since the inauguration of the Board showed that the will to act was even more important.
The Commissioner further noted what he described as the problem of impunity when people know what to do but will not do it and also many people who classify themselves as big men or untouchables, adding that with the backing of the Governor, they have taken enforcement of the law to another level.
He warned that when developers go ahead and build without permit, they would bring the structure down, disclosing that they are also beaming their light on markets.
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