In Ludhiana, the municipal corporation demolished two unauthorized colonies and labour quarters, aiming to curb illegal constructions under MC zone C. Despite prior actions, renewed construction prompted this recent crackdown. Officials stressed obtaining approved building plans before commencing construction and warned of strict penalties for illegal activities. The persistent challenge of unauthorized structures necessitates a multifaceted approach, including community awareness, stringent penalties, expedited approvals, and improved monitoring. Collaborative efforts between authorities and residents are vital to mitigate this issue and ensure planned urban development and citizen safety.Read more

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced amendments to the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Rules-2006, allowing for the delineation of specific portions of the built-up area within an SEZ unit on a floor-by-floor basis, designating them as non-processing or non-SEZ areas. This amendment is specifically applicable to developers of Information Technology or Information Technology-enabled services SEZs, allowing them to request the demarcation of a portion of the built-up area as a non-processing area. However, certain conditions apply, including the prohibition of partial floor demarcation, and the processing area must not fall below 50% of the total area for category A, B, or C cities. This amendment aims to enhance leasing prospects and boost the attractiveness of the Indian commercial space for investors.Read more

The Kerala Cabinet's recent approval of new regulations for industrial estate land ownership marks a pivotal step towards easing bureaucratic hurdles and simplifying title deed processes. These amendments, eliminating wait times and allowing modifications in ownership structures, respond to longstanding demands aimed at streamlining land transfers and facilitating smoother industrial ventures within the state. The changes reflect a proactive approach to aligning bureaucratic procedures with entrepreneurs' needs, potentially transforming the landscape of industrial ventures in Kerala.Read more

Greater Noida has started a comprehensive land audit and door-to-door survey for its villages. The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) is engaging a consultant agency to conduct surveys utilizing aerial drone technology. The agency's year-long contract involves compiling data, executing door-to-door surveys, and digitizing land boundaries. This meticulous initiative aims to update land records, identify discrepancies, and ensure precision in land usage. It demonstrates a commitment to transparent and accurate records, benefiting urban planning and future development in the region.Read more

The Jharkhand State Housing Board (JSHB) has taken a decisive stance against the misuse of residential plots, announcing its intent to initiate legal proceedings against allottees who have transformed their residential plots into commercial establishments. Notices have been issued to over 500 identified defaulters who engaged in such violations, particularly in cities like Ranchi, Hazaribag, Jamshedpur, and Dhanbad. The violations involve the conversion of residential plots into commercial ventures, with areas like Harmu and Ashok Nagar in Ranchi being notable hotspots. The board is also actively conducting surveys to identify and reclaim encroached areas, demonstrating its commitment to restoring the intended use of residential plots.Read more

The Supreme Court has directed the Bihar government to immediately halt further construction activities in the vicinity of the Ganga River, particularly in and around Patna. The court has instructed the state government to submit an affidavit detailing the removal of identified illegal structures on the floodplains of the Ganga River in Patna. The plea, filed by a Patna resident, raised concerns about illegal encroachments and constructions on the ecologically sensitive Ganga floodplains, highlighting environmental degradation, threats to residents, obstruction of the river's natural course, and adverse impacts on biodiversity. The court's directive underscores the importance of environmental conservation and compliance with regulations to protect vital ecosystems.Read more

The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) in Haryana has sealed six houses in Sushant Lok 2 for illegal commercial activities, part of a broader crackdown on unauthorized businesses in residential areas. This initiative, ongoing since October, has resulted in around 500 properties being sealed and more than 750 violators receiving notices for breaching occupation certificate (OC) rules. The department's rigorous enforcement, exemplified by recent actions in Sushant Lok 2 and DLF 1, highlights a commitment to upholding building norms, discouraging violations, and maintaining the integrity of residential neighbourhoods in Haryana.Read more

Starting in January, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) will introduce a streamlined process allowing owners of small plots to commence house construction within a week of submitting building plans. This departure from the previous bureaucratic approach enables plot owners with small plots, not exceeding seven cottahs, to have their plans sanctioned by engaging an architect or licensed building surveyor (LBS) without direct intervention from KMC buildings department officials. The initiative, designed to expedite approvals and enhance transparency, involves online plan submissions, swift sanctions, and subsequent inspections to ensure adherence to the approved plans.Read more

The Flat Owners' Association of City Plaza, facing structural stability concerns, has decided to take legal action against the city corporation. The association plans to submit a petition to the Local Self Government Department (LSGD) principal director as the initial step. The civic body recently revoked 84 building numbers for both commercial and residential structures within the City Plaza building due to worries about its stability. Despite an eviction notice, residents are refusing to vacate. The association, having received a favourable structural stability certificate, is pursuing legal recourse to address concerns and hold the corporation accountable for ensuring safety.Read more

The Gujarat High Court has mandated Snehanjali Cooperative Housing Society near Gulab Tower to deposit Rs 79 crore with AUDA by December 31 or face eviction from a 4,645 square metre plot. Failure to comply with the order will lead to transfer of the plot to Nidhi Cooperative Housing Society. This emphasises the prolonged legal battle involving land disputes and the importance of meeting legal obligations promptly to avoid contentious issues.Read more