TDI multiplex: the show is not on yet

According to a communication between the offices of the chief architect and the chief administrator of UT,several objections have been raised on the building plans of the multiplex.

The building plan of TDI Multiplex was sanctioned on April 4,2006. Revised plans were submitted on November 21,2008,with remarks from the officials concerned that “total planning changed as compared with the previous sanctioned plan”. The plans were perused in the Estate Office and recommended by the members of a committee examining the plans. The chief fire officer had,however,pointed to the absence of a six-metre-wide clear passage around the building,mandatory under the National Building Code.

On the instructions of the finance secretary-cum-chief administrator,the revised building plans forwarded by the Estate Office were examined by the chief architect’s office from architectural point of view. It made certain observations that may now further delay the opening of the multiplex.

The architecture department confirmed that the total planning was changed as compared to previous sanctioned building plans and also there was no provision of ramp for parking in the lower basement. While the multiplex provided two car lifts,it does not confirm certain clauses of the National Building Code 2005.

Also,excess coverage in the ramp and shop area at rear left side of a single-storey block has been made up to the projection,which is against the architectural control. The architecture department further observed that natural light and ventilation of physically disabled toilet,women’s toilet on lower and upper ground floor too needed to be made clear.

From the fire safety angle,the architecture department observed that “no opening in the fire corridor for the exit route of these cinemas has been made”. It added that four RCC columns had been protruded in the fire exit corridors,thus reducing the clear width,“which may be discussed”.

A senior administration official said: “We are examining the plans submitted by the multiplex owners. Certain observations have been made by the architecture department. We are waiting for the town planning wing to get further clarity on the matter.”