Law & Policy

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UPRERA issues new directives to promote transparency in real estate sector

Author : PNT Reporter

The Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UPRERA) introduces new directives to bolster transparency and safeguard home buyers' interests in the real estate sector. Promoters are now mandated to prove clear title to project land upon registration, requiring written consent and registered joint development agreements (JDAs) if land is owned by someone other than the promoter. Additionally, an affidavit must affirm the land's freedom from encumbrances or disclose existing ones. Another directive demands consistency in project names across sanctioned maps, RERA registrations, and marketing materials to address discrepancies causing confusion among buyers. These measures aim to enhance consumer protection, streamline conveyance deed processes, and foster a more transparent and reliable real estate market in Uttar Pradesh....

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Supreme Court upholds termination of Vedanta's land lease in Ratnagiri

Author : PNT Reporter

The Supreme Court has upheld MIDC's decision to terminate the land lease granted to Vedanta in 1992 for a proposed copper smelter plant in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra. Vedanta argued that the termination was arbitrary as it could not begin construction because of a state stay order and protests. It said that it had already invested INR 80-100 crore with all approvals in place. While MIDC said that it has issued termination notices in 2014, over 20 years after the project deadline. The judgment highlights the need for transparent mechanisms balancing development, corporate rights and responsibilities, especially in Maharashtra, which is seeking to attract more investments and industrialization....

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Chandigarh mandates energy efficiency code for commercial buildings

Author : PNT Reporter

Starting May 1, 2024, Chandigarh will enforce a new energy efficiency code targeting commercial buildings. The initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency in these structures, with projections suggesting it could lead to annual electricity savings of 20-30%. By implementing this code, authorities hope to reduce energy consumption, minimize environmental impact, and promote sustainable practices in urban development. This move reflects the city's commitment to fostering a greener and more sustainable future while addressing energy challenges in the built environment....

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Noida Authority faces court order over delayed land allotment for 125-acre Sports City project

Author : PNT Reporter

A dispute over land acquisition for a major sports complex project in Noida has reached the Allahabad High Court. ATS Homes, the project's developer, accuses the Noida Authority of not providing the necessary 25 acres of land for the project's initial phase, despite plans for a 125-acre "Sports City" in Sector 152, Noida. The court has raised concerns about the delay and directed the Noida Authority to respond by April 3. The project, featuring an international cricket stadium and other sports facilities, could enhance Noida's infrastructure and promote a healthy lifestyle, pending resolution of the land allotment issue....

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Unified rules to aid high-rise boom in 23 merged localities of Pune

Author : PNT Bureau

The incorporation of 23 areas into Pune's civic limits in 2021 is anticipated to stimulate real estate development with the impending implementation of the Unified Development Control and Promotion Rules (UDCPR). These rules are meant to offer benefits to developers and landowners by relaxing regulations and fostering high-rise constructions, especially in the city's outskirts. Local residents and leaders have long advocated for the UDCPR's implementation to ensure uniformity in construction regulations across all areas under the Pune Municipal Corporation, marking a significant step towards streamlined development....

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MahaRERA ruling: Homebuyers' agreements cancelled over payment defaults

Author : PNT Bureau

MahaRERA recently cancelled agreements for four homebuyers in Pune who defaulted on payments totaling INR 4 crore to Gera Developments. Despite reminders, some buyers failed to meet installments deadlines, prompting the developer's appeal to MahaRERA. Five buyers settled dues, but four didn't comply, leading to cancellation. This underscores the importance of timely payments. The ruling emphasizes MahaRERA's role in ensuring fairness and compliance in real estate. It's a wake-up call for both developers and buyers to uphold their obligations. Effective communication and financial planning are vital to avoid such situations and maintain transparency in property transactions....

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Delhi government launches data collection for unauthorized colony development

Author : PNT Reporter

The Delhi government has initiated data collection to develop unauthorized colonies, focusing on solid waste management, road conditions, borewells, and sewer conditions. Multiplicity of agencies has been a hurdle, prompting data collection by agencies across Vidhan Sabha-wise jurisdictions. With over 30% of Delhi's population residing in illegal colonies, the government aims to regularize and redevelop 1,731 of them. Additionally, the Delhi Development Authority's PM Uday Yojana has received 4.75 lakh applications for ownership rights, though challenges like high fees and limited benefits persist. Efforts include simplifying procedures and enhancing infrastructure, with INR 900 crore allocated for upgrades in 2024-25....

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Kolkata Municipality issues notices to six illegal building developers

Author : PNT Reporter

In Kolkata, the KMC buildings department has cracked down on six illegal buildings near a collapsed site in Azhar Molla Bagan. One dangerously tilting structure faces imminent demolition, while efforts are on to locate three others showing signs of instability. Promoters will face hearings at the civic headquarters, with potential demolition orders for unsafe portions. Residents face uncertainty over the fate of their homes, especially those tilting towards neighbouring buildings. Mayor Firhad Hakim reaffirms zero tolerance for illegal constructions, highlighting the urgent need to address the proliferation of such buildings to prevent future tragedies....

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Court orders Bengaluru builder to provide parking space for purchased flat

Author : PNT Reporter

The Bengaluru consumer court reprimanded Sri Lakshmi Constructions for breaching contract terms in a Vasantha Vallabha Nagar apartment purchase. The builder, accused of failing to provide covered car parking, sewage treatment, BWSSB connection, and rainwater harvesting, was ordered to rectify these deficiencies and compensate the complainant with INR 20,000 for mental distress, plus litigation costs. The complaint arose from purchasing a 2 BHK flat in 2021, with subsequent dissatisfaction over inadequate amenities. Despite the builder's argument against the complainant's consumer status, the court held them accountable, emphasizing their failure to fulfill obligations, particularly regarding parking arrangements....

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Bombay HC orders dedicated cell for senior citizen complaints on redevelopment delays

Author : PNT Reporter

The State Government of Maharashtra has introduced a policy initiative to address delays in building redevelopment, especially concerning senior citizens, presenting it to the Bombay High Court. The government's circular, discussed during a session led by Justices Girish Kulkarni and Firdosh Pooniwalla, outlines measures to address delays impacting senior citizens, stressing adherence to statutory directives. The court, in its subsequent order, emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent such delays, expressing satisfaction with the government's actions to protect seniors' housing rights. Stemming from a petition by Jayashree Dholi, the court mandated the maintenance of a registry for such projects and proposed a specialized oversight cell. It urged for swift resolution of disputes and highlighted the importance of addressing senior citizens' complaints promptly....