Patna: Bihar is set to introduce district-level approval for multi-storey building projects in rural areas, particularly villages adjoining expanding urban centres, under rules being drafted by the Panchayati Raj Department.
The proposed system will require building plans for multi-storey houses and apartments to be examined by a district-level committee chaired by the Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC).
The rules are expected to be implemented by the end of this year after approval from the Law Department and the state Cabinet. They will take effect after publication in the official gazette.
District-Level Committee
The proposed committee will include the District Panchayati Raj Officer, Chief Engineer of the Zila Parishad and officials from the Law and Revenue departments, besides being chaired by the DDC.
The framework will be modelled on provisions under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, or RERA, with the aim of bringing greater oversight to construction in rural areas.
Panchayati Raj Minister Deepak Prakash said approval of building plans would become mandatory for multi-storey construction in rural areas adjoining cities.
70% Of Buyers’ Funds To Be Kept Separately
Under the proposed provisions, builders registering projects covering more than 500 square metres will have to deposit 70% of funds collected from buyers into a separate account.
The money can be used only for construction of the specific project. Builders will also have to provide information on project layouts, approved plans, government permissions and construction progress to the designated authority.
If possession is delayed, buyers may be entitled to compensation along with interest, according to the proposed provisions.
Five-Year Liability For Construction Defects
Builders will also be responsible for rectifying construction or structural defects for five years after completion.
If a defect is identified during this period, the builder will have to repair it without charging the buyer. Buyers will also be able to file complaints with the designated authority, with provisions for their speedy resolution.
The rules will further require builders to clearly disclose the total built-up area and usable carpet area of a property, aimed at preventing buyers from being charged for space they cannot use.
No Approval For Ground Plus One Houses
The proposed regulations will not require building-plan approval for houses up to two storeys, meaning a ground floor plus one floor, in rural areas.
The provisions will also not apply to structures built on plots smaller than 500 square metres, according to the proposed framework.
Regulation Of Expanding Rural Construction
At present, there is no mandatory system for approving building plans for multi-storey structures in several rural areas adjoining cities.
The government has cited the expansion of urban settlements into neighbouring villages as a reason for introducing the new framework.
The proposed district-level approval mechanism is intended to regulate construction along narrow village roads and address concerns related to unplanned multi-storey development and public safety.
The rules are currently being drafted by the Panchayati Raj Department. After legal scrutiny and Cabinet approval, the provisions will come into force following their publication in the official gazette.
