Hyderabad Halts Permissions for New Building Layouts Near Lakes Amid Regulatory Confusion
The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have temporarily suspended issuing permissions for building layouts near lakes and water bodies in Hyderabad. This decision comes after confusion regarding buffer zones and full tank levels (FTL) of these water bodies. Despite the absence of official orders, the HMDA and GHMC have stopped processing new files, resulting in approximately 400 to 500 stalled applications.
Incomplete Notifications Delaying Permissions
There are around 580 water bodies within the Outer Ring Road in Hyderabad, out of which only 130 have completed final notifications for buffer zones and FTL. The remaining 430 water bodies are still awaiting final notifications. Given this, the government agencies are refraining from granting permissions to avoid potential legal issues in the future. While HMDA and GHMC believe in finalizing notification for all lakes, the process typically takes several months, leading to the current application backlog.
Industry Concerns Amid Delayed Permissions
With the stalled permissions affecting hundreds of fresh applications, real estate organizations and industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about the impact on the real estate industry. This delay has aptly coincided with the festive season when property transactions tend to peak between October and December. The Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI), Hyderabad chapter, urges a resolution to avoid negative consequences for the industry.
Role of HYDRAA in Driving Change
Historically, HMDA and GHMC granted permissions based on no objection certificates (NOCs) from irrigation and revenue departments, with district collectors issuing NOCs based on joint inspections. However, several faulty permissions were granted in FTL and buffer zones, prompting the government to form the Hyderabad Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HYDRAA). HYDRAA’s recommendations led to suspensions, cases filed against officials, and the awareness to exercise caution regarding building and layout permissions. MHDA and GHMC continue to have discretionary powers in granting permissions, albeit urging an extra level of caution.
Ensuring Compliance While Avoiding Suspension of Permissions
While there is not a formal ban on granting permissions near lakes and water bodies, the HMDA and GHMC must exercise cautiousness. Their intent is to ensure compliance with buffer zones and FTL without halting all permissions entirely. With the formation of HYDRAA and the increased attention on the legality of permissions, the government wants to avoid repeat occurrences of faulty permissions. This balanced approach ensures development while upholding ecological and regulatory norms.
As developers and prospective buyers look towards the upcoming festive season, the resolution of confusion and strict compliance will be essential for harmonious urban development. The long-term goal is to foster sustainable growth in real estate without compromising sensitive ecological systems. Both government entities are working to address the regulatory confusion, completing pending notifications, and providing clarity on future permissions.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the given mixed text data and does not necessarily reflect the events as described in the text.
