New move on the block

Ranchi, May 8: Ranchi Regional Development Authority’s (RRDA) move of granting post facto approval to building plans of all houses constructed after 1975 has come as a relief to residents facing demolition threats.

RRDA also decided to regularise structures that have not followed building by-laws but were within the “condone limit”.

According to sources, around 80 per cent houses have not been built in accordance to the building by-laws and residents. A resident of Kanke said if the decision was duly implemented, those facing demolition threats would be at ease. The step would come as a big support to those who have to bribe RRDA officials to sit tight on demolition orders.

“A majority of houses, besides the Kanke dam, have been constructed in violation to the building by-laws. RRDA has demolished many buildings and several houses are likely to be demolished soon. But if RRDA regularises these houses, residents would no longer have to bribe officials,” a locality resident said requesting anonymity.

A resident of Vidya Nagar near Harmu called the move “a blessing” for those who could not proceed with the construction work.

Purushottam Jha, an architect and a resident of Vidyapati Nagar, said the step should be implemented judiciously with a clear motive. “A similar step was taken 10 years ago but failed due to the negative attitude of some RRDA officials. If this time it is implemented, people will respond positively and take advantage of the facilities provided by the government,” he said.

The move would also generate good income for the government, as people taking post facto approval of their building plan would have to pay a penalty and a fee.

Arun Singh, an architect near Morabadi, supported Jha saying the move would bring a positive change in the society.

“Illegal construction would be regularised if RRDA’s plan is converted into reality. This means a large number of people would be converted into law abiding citizens,” he said.

Arwind Kumar Lal, a civil court lawyer and resident of Maicky Road, said the step has been taken to “protect” influential residents.

“Jharkhand High Court had directed demolition of illegal buildings in 2002. Following the direction, houses of several influential people came under the net. With a view to protect these residents, RRDA has made the decision. It will never benefit the poor. RRDA should first publish the list of persons owning illegally constructed houses and then show its kind gesture. It should not try to hide its weakness through this move,” he added.

But RRDA vice-chairman M.P. Mishra said within 10 days all details would be out.

“The proceedings after yesterday’s meeting is yet to be signed. Once done, we will publish an advertisement asking people to apply. It is wrong to think that those crossing the permissible limit of deviation will be let off and those encroaching land would be given any benefits. I have certain powers under building by-laws of RRDA. That would be used for the benefit of the people. People approaching us for post facto approval would be benefited only if we find their construction in accordance to the rules,” he added.