No more building plan approvals needed for small plots in Prayagraj
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Prayagraj: Those planning to build houses in Prayagraj can breathe a sigh of relief. Thanks to the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet's approval of the new Building Construction and Development Byelaws 2025, individuals building houses on plots up to 100 sqm will no longer need to get building plans approved.
This move aims to simplify the construction process and is set to be implemented across development authorities, including the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA).
The new Building Construction and Development Bylaws 2025 will be a huge relief for middle-class families in Prayagraj. They'll no longer have to shell out around Rs 1.25 lakh for map approval fees and go through a lengthy process with multiple clearances.
This change will simplify and speed up the homebuilding process, making it more accessible and affordable for many.
The new bylaws also allow more flexible use of buildings. For instance, shops can be opened in houses located along wide roads. If adequate parking space is available, professionals like doctors, lawyers, architects and designers will be permitted to operate offices from home. Schools without hostels or dormitories will be allowed to function on roads at least 9 metres wide, and shopping malls can be established on roads 18 metres wide.
Group housing projects will also get easier approvals for plots up to 1,500 square metres.
However, these changes will not apply to certain restricted areas like Mela zone, illegal colonies, and unauthorised plotted developments. In these areas, construction without map approval will still not be permitted. The new policy will also lead to the de-sealing of previously sealed structures, most of which were built on plots close to 100 square metres.
Implementation of the new bylaws is expected to bring a major boost to housing and retail activities, while also increasing revenue for PDA.
PDA vice-chairman Amit Pal Sharma said, "Although the Cabinet has approved the new bylaws, an official govt order is awaited. Once issued, the rules will be enforced across the city."
"We will have training session of the staff regarding the provisions laid down under the new bylaws and the entire exercise is for the larger welfare of the houseowners and along with the training, the software will also be updated," added Sharma.
Meanwhile, Jitendra Singh, the newly appointed town planner for PDA, officially assumed charge on Friday. Previously posted in Jhansi, Singh took over the role in the presence of Sharma and PDA secretary Ajit Singh. The position remained vacant for a week following the transfer of former chief town planner TP Singh.
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