The Andhra Pradesh state government is establishing an online grievance redressal cell to improve efficiency in town planning departments across urban civic bodies, responding to builder complaints regarding delays in building plan approvals. Applicants can now submit plans via WhatsApp or email. Minister Dr. P Narayana has criticized ongoing issues, emphasizing the need for timely approvals to combat illegal constructions. The government is also integrating municipal portals for transparency and has set strict deadlines for plan clearance. Builders are now allowed to proceed with construction if their plans are not approved on time, underscoring the importance of construction for economic growth.
The Andhra Pradesh state government has decided to launch an online grievance redressal cell to streamline the town planning departments within urban civic bodies. This initiative follows complaints about officials being hesitant to approve building plans, even when applicants have submitted all the necessary documents. Applicants will now be able to submit their plans via a designated WhatsApp number or email for quicker clearance. Municipal administration and urban development minister Dr. P Narayana, who has been in discussions with private builders and real estate developers over the past four months, noted that many developers have raised concerns about delays in the approval process by civic authorities.
Builders claimed that town planning departments were withholding building plans due to demands for bribes. In response, the minister reviewed the situation with town planning chiefs and municipal commissioners, stating that no building plans or layout permissions should be delayed without valid reasons. He noted that delays in approving legitimate projects contribute to the rise of illegal constructions and unauthorized layouts. The minister urged officials to correct their practices to avoid disciplinary action. Additionally, the municipal administration department has formed a committee to recommend solutions for reducing delays in clearing building plans within municipal and urban development authorities.
In the meantime, the state government aims to consolidate all municipal administration portals to enhance transparency within the system. Deadlines have been established for the clearance of building plans at every level, from the town planning officer to the chief planning officer. Additionally, builders are permitted to proceed with construction if their plans are not approved within the specified timeline. The minister emphasized that accelerating construction activity is crucial for overall development.
Sources indicated that the minister is not entirely satisfied with the progress in the town planning department, as complaints from builders persist despite his ongoing directives to officials. He remarked that the construction sector, especially in urban areas, plays a vital role in driving growth. The minister noted that allowing private builders to complete their projects according to their plans could significantly accelerate development. He warned that delays would adversely affect the finances of builders, buyers, and the government alike.
By addressing complaints and streamlining processes, the government aims to bolster the construction sector, enhance transparency, and mitigate delays, which are essential for fostering overall urban development.
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