In a significant move that has sent shockwaves through Haryana’s real estate sector, the state government has announced a stringent crackdown on illegally constructed fourth floors in residential buildings.
This decision, which comes in the wake of a ban imposed on “stilt plus four floors” constructions in February 2023, marks a turning point in the state’s approach to urban development and regulation enforcement.
The Ban and Its Aftermath
On February 23, 2023, the Haryana government imposed a moratorium on approvals for “stilt plus four floors” building plans on residential plots.
This decision was driven by growing concerns over the strain on urban infrastructure and the quality of life in residential areas.
Despite the ban, authorities noticed a troubling trend: some property owners continued to construct fourth floors without proper sanctions, often in connivance with local officials and architects.
Department of Town and Country Planning Takes Action
The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has now taken a firm stance against these violations.
Recent directives from the department indicate that illegally constructed fourth floors may face demolition, and their occupancy certificates (OCs) could be cancelled.
This move is not just a warning but a concrete step towards enforcing building regulations.
Key Points of the Crackdown:
- Cancellation of Occupancy Certificates: The DTCP has already cancelled OCs for 58 residential properties in Gurgaon where fourth floors were constructed in violation of approved building plans.
- Show-Cause Notices: Owners of these 58 properties have been issued show-cause notices, giving them seven days to file their replies.
- Sealing and Demolition: If satisfactory responses are not received, the DTCP is prepared to seal these properties and potentially demolish the illegal constructions.
- Architect Accountability: 18 architects have been blacklisted for issuing incorrect OCs, with information sent to the Council of Architecture.
- Widespread Impact: The affected properties are located in various licensed colonies, including upscale areas like Ansal Versalia, Esencia, Sushant Lok 1, 2, and 3, and DLF 1.
Implications for Property Owners and Buyers
The DTCP’s actions have significant implications for both current property owners and potential buyers in Haryana:
- No Sale or Purchase of Illegal Fourth Floors: The government has made it clear that fourth floors constructed after February 23, 2023, cannot be registered for sale or purchase.
- Risk of Investment Loss: Those who have invested in such properties face the risk of losing their investments if demolition orders are carried out.
- Due Diligence Crucial: Prospective buyers are advised to thoroughly check the legality of constructions, especially for properties with four floors.
- Restoration Orders: Property owners may be required to restore buildings to their original, approved state, potentially incurring significant costs.
The Debate: Infrastructure vs. Housing Needs
The crackdown has reignited the debate on urban development in Haryana:
- Infrastructure Concerns: Many residents support the government’s stance, arguing that additional floors strain already overburdened infrastructure, including water supply, sewage systems, and traffic management.
- Housing Demand: Developers and some property owners contend that higher-density buildings are necessary to meet the growing housing demand in urban areas.
- Economic Impact: The real estate sector, a significant contributor to Haryana’s economy, may face short-term challenges due to these regulations.
Government’s Stance and Future Outlook
The Haryana government’s actions reflect a commitment to sustainable urban development and strict enforcement of building norms. While the immediate focus is on addressing existing violations, the long-term implications of this policy are yet to unfold:
- Pending Decision: The government is still deliberating on the future of “stilt plus four floors” constructions across the state.
- Balancing Act: Authorities face the challenge of balancing urban housing needs with infrastructure capabilities and quality of life concerns.
- Potential Policy Revisions: There’s speculation about potential revisions to building regulations that might provide a middle ground between development needs and infrastructure constraints.
Haryana’s Crackdown
Haryana’s crackdown on illegal fourth floors marks a critical juncture in the state’s urban development narrative.
As the DTCP moves forward with its enforcement actions, property owners, developers, and potential buyers in Haryana must navigate this new landscape carefully.
The coming months will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of these measures on Haryana’s real estate sector and urban planning strategies.
For now, the message from the authorities is clear: compliance with building regulations is non-negotiable, and violations will face severe consequences, including the possibility of demolition.
As the situation evolves, all stakeholders in Haryana’s urban development sphere will be watching closely, adapting to what could be a new era in the state’s approach to residential construction and urban planning.