25 Dec 2024

A recent audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) highlighted significant lapses in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority's (YEIDA) housing project management between 2005 and 2021. The report revealed policy and procedural irregularities, inadequate eligibility criteria, and financial mismanagement leading to stalled projects and financial losses exceeding INR 4,200 crore. Irregular allotments, weak financial safeguards, and delayed project timelines were common issues. YEIDA has since acknowledged deficiencies and implemented changes to tighten its allotment process, including stricter financial requirements, enhanced penalties for delays, and improved project accountability measures.Read more

25 Dec 2024

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted search operations at two Hyderabad premises connected to real estate firms and their promoters under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The raids uncovered jewellery and bullion worth INR 5.4 crore, unaccounted cash amounting to INR 72.7 lakh, and incriminating documents. The investigation revealed that these firms defrauded buyers of INR 842 crore through fraudulent practices, including misappropriating INR 216.9 crore in cash. Further irregularities were found, such as high-value property transactions and unaccounted funds. Despite summonses, the promoters remained non-cooperative, obstructing the probe. Previously, assets worth INR 161.5 crore had been attached in connection with the case.Read more

25 Dec 2024

The Karnataka Assembly has passed the MDA Bill 2024, paving the way for Mysore Urban Development Authority's (MUDA) transformation into the independent Mysuru Development Authority (MDA), akin to Bengaluru's BDA. The new entity will operate under a dedicated Act with 85 sections, focusing on autonomous governance, revenue generation, and reduced political influence. It will include a heritage protection committee to preserve Mysuru's historic architecture. The bill, driven by allegations of irregularities under MUDA, aims to address urban challenges while promoting efficient development. Once enacted, it marks a significant shift in Mysuru's urban planning and infrastructure management.Read more

25 Dec 2024

Excavation for a commercial building in Sector 15, CBD-Belapur caused a road cave-in near Mangal Tower, a residential high-rise, triggering panic and temporary evacuations. Although Mangal Tower's structure was unaffected, residents sought safety measures. Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) declared the building safe after inspection but requested a detailed technical assessment by Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI). Legal action will follow based on the findings. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to construction safety norms and holding developers accountable to ensure urban safety and compliance, particularly in rapidly developing areas like CBD-Belapur.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

The Maharashtra government plans to introduce vertical property cards for flat owners to improve documentation and reduce fraud. These cards will record ownership, carpet area, and loan details, supplementing existing urban property cards and rural 7/12 extracts. The phased rollout, starting with MahaRERA-registered projects, aims to streamline transactions and resolve ownership disputes. This initiative, under CM Devendra Fadnavis, will amend the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, 1966. Officials believe the new system will enhance transparency and benefit stakeholders in the real estate market, offering clarity and confidence in property ownership.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

The Hyderabad Disaster and Response Asset Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA) clarified that residential properties built before July 2024 are exempt from its regulations, but unauthorised commercial buildings will face demolition. Commissioner AV Ranganath emphasized protecting water bodies and curbing illegal construction, particularly near Kamuni Cheruvu and Maisamma Cheruvu lakes in Kukatpally and Moosapet. He criticised Vasavi Group for delaying a flood canal project, exacerbating monsoon flooding in nearby slums, and directed its completion by next monsoon. HYDRAA aims to safeguard urban water bodies, tackle encroachments, and ensure proper urban development, urging residents to actively participate in these efforts.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

The Kalaburagi bench of the Karnataka High Court dismissed an appeal by the urban development department and Vijayapura's deputy commissioner, emphasising that land development cannot be restricted without a formal acquisition notification. The case stemmed from two landowners, Mahaveer and Anil, who sought approval for their layout plan, which was delayed by the Vijayapura Urban Development Authority. The court noted that the proposed development scheme from 2010 had lapsed, and the state had not issued a notification to acquire the land. The bench reaffirmed that landowners have the right to develop their property unless a preliminary acquisition notification is issued.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

The Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority (KCZMA) has issued new guidelines for local bodies to grant permits for residential construction under the CRZ-2019 notification. A government order (GO) issued earlier this week clarifies that permissions can be granted for residential buildings up to 300 sq m in CRZ II, CRZ III A, and CRZ III B areas, subject to specific conditions. Applications for larger constructions or non-residential buildings must be submitted with recommendations to the KCZMA. Local authorities are responsible for verifying the status of properties and ensuring compliance with guidelines before issuing permits. Any violations can lead to cancellation of permits by KCZMA.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) is moving forward with plot registration in its Mohan Road scheme's sectors 3, 4, 6, and 7, following RERA registration in the first phase. LDA Vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar has directed increased machinery and workforce deployment to speed up development work. Sector-6 is progressing with road marking and levelling, with further infrastructure development planned. The project includes 1,617 residential plots and 22 group housing plots, along with 18 parks. In the Devpur Para housing scheme, Kumar instructed improvements to parking and playground facilities, urging timely completion.Read more

PNT Reporter

24 Dec 2024

Rajkot police have intensified enforcement of the Disturbed Areas Act in the Rajkot West legislative assembly area, uncovering violations in 13 properties during inspections in Ward No. 2. Legal action has been initiated against three landlords for failing to register non-local tenants, a requirement under the Act. Assistant Commissioner Radhika Bharai emphasized the inspections aim to ensure compliance and monitor demographic changes in sensitive areas. The crackdown follows concerns raised about unchecked violations, prompting calls to expand the Act's coverage. Authorities aim to strengthen oversight and maintain social harmony amidst criticism over implementation delays.Read more