To address building norm violations, the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has formed specialized teams to inspect 30 residential properties in licensed colonies where unauthorized construction allegedly occurred even after obtaining occupation certificates (OCs). Prompted by rising complaints, this move aims to investigate violations thoroughly and take necessary actions. Architects were empowered to issue OCs through self-certification, but concerns about ethical compliance prompted District Town Planners (DTPs) to review 10% of OCs issued. If violations are found during inspections, actions range from show cause notices to blacklisting architects and revoking OCs. This initiative reinforces the DTCP's commitment to maintaining construction integrity.
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In response to numerous complaints regarding violations of building norms, the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has taken decisive action by establishing dedicated teams. These teams have been tasked with conducting thorough inspections of 30 residential properties located within licensed colonies. The properties under scrutiny are those where owners have allegedly engaged in unauthorized construction activities even after obtaining occupation certificates (OCs).
The compilation of the list of properties earmarked for inspection was carried out based on insightful inputs provided by the diligent field staff. The primary objective of these inspection teams is to ascertain the extent of violations and, subsequently, take appropriate actions against the individuals responsible for these transgressions.
This recent initiative was precipitated by the observations of Senior Town Planner (STP) Renuka Singh, who noted a surge in complaints relating to unauthorized construction in conjunction with OCs. Recognizing the need for a more thorough investigation into this matter, the DTCP, in November of the previous year, had authorized architects to independently issue OCs for residential properties within licensed plotted colonies in Haryana, under a self-certification scheme.
According to the guidelines outlined by the DTCP, any architect duly registered with the Council of Architecture (CoA) is bestowed with the authority to grant an occupation certificate, subsequent to a meticulous review of all pertinent documents. Moreover, it is stipulated that within a span of three days post-issuance, a physical copy of the application, accompanied by the requisite documentation, must be submitted to the department for meticulous record-keeping.
Nonetheless, concerns have arisen regarding the adherence to professional ethics among architects who are vested with the power to issue occupation certificates via self-certification. Consequently, it has been decreed that District Town Planners (DTPs) across all districts shall be entrusted with the responsibility of scrutinizing 10% of the aggregate OCs issued by architects, as a measure to uphold the integrity of the process.
During the comprehensive inspections conducted by the DTPs, if any instances of violations or incomplete constructions are brought to light, the concerned authority retains the prerogative to issue show cause notices. In more severe cases, punitive measures such as blacklisting the architects involved, revoking the OCs, and even registering First Information Reports (FIRs) may be undertaken. Moreover, the DTCP reserves the right to recommend to the registration authority that further registrations of floors or buildings designed by these architects be curtailed.
In conclusion, the Department of Town and Country Planning's resolute action to combat unauthorized construction through diligent inspections signifies a pivotal step in preserving the sanctity of licensed colonies. By adhering to stringent guidelines and ensuring the ethical conduct of professionals, the department aims to uphold the integrity of the construction process and maintain the safety and aesthetics of residential areas.
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