In Maharashtra, around 10,000 cooperative housing societies are waiting for the implementation of a single-window clearance system. This delay has hindered many societies, primarily located in Pune, Mumbai, and Thane, from initiating self-redevelopment of their properties. The Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank was designated as the nodal agency for this initiative following a government resolution (GR) issued on September 13, 2019. The GR aimed to streamline the approval process for self-redevelopment of properties that are 30 years old or older. According to Suhas Patwardhan, chairman of the Maharashtra State Cooperative Federation, nearly half of the state’s 1.25 lakh registered housing societies are exploring redevelopment options. However, concerns regarding clearance from multiple departments have postponed their plans. Despite expressing interest, many societies are hesitant due to the bureaucratic hurdles involved in obtaining necessary approvals. Housing societies are advocating for the Chief Minister to expedite the implementation of the single-window system to facilitate self-redevelopment efforts.
Challenges Faced by Housing Societies
The reluctance of housing societies to embark on self-redevelopment projects stems from various bureaucratic hurdles. Among the most significant challenges are obtaining clearances related to property tax, electricity, and approvals from local authorities. A member of a housing society seeking self-redevelopment remarked that these hurdles often lead to years of waiting, stalling crucial redevelopment initiatives. This prolonged waiting period not only delays the project but also creates uncertainty for residents looking to improve their living conditions. Moreover, state cooperative department officials have reported no self-redevelopment proposals since the government announced a deemed conveyance for such projects. This lack of proposals underscores the difficulties societies face in navigating the approval process. Advocates for self-redevelopment are urging the government to simplify these rules and streamline the clearance process to encourage more housing societies to consider self-redevelopment as a viable option.
Single-Window System: A Potential Solution
The proposed single-window clearance system aims to simplify the approval process for redevelopment projects. Under this system, a software platform will provide guidelines and regulations related to redevelopment activities. Housing societies or developers will be able to submit their proposals online, which will then be forwarded to the relevant departments for evaluation. Following this, societies would receive feedback and can make necessary corrections before resubmitting their proposals. The system promises to inform applicants about applicable premiums, fees, and taxes, which can also be paid online. This innovative approach is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in the approval process. Shreeprasad Parab, expert director of the Maharashtra State Housing Federation, emphasizes that the single-window system will significantly ease the process of doing business in the real estate sector. By ensuring timely approvals, the system is set to accelerate development efforts across the state, ultimately benefiting residents and improving the housing landscape.
Conclusion: A Call for Action
The urgency for the implementation of the single-window clearance system in Maharashtra is becoming increasingly apparent. With thousands of housing societies eager to enhance their properties, the government must take decisive action to facilitate this process.
- Up to 10,000 housing societies await redevelopment clearances.
- Bureaucratic hurdles delay self-redevelopment projects in Maharashtra.
- The proposed single-window system aims to streamline approvals.
- Online submission and feedback will enhance transparency.
- Advocates urge the government for swift implementation.
- Self-redevelopment could significantly improve housing conditions.
