Map approval to be must for rural multi-storey buildings

Patna: The state govt is preparing to make map approval mandatory for the construction of apartments and multi-storey buildings in rural areas, in a move aimed at regulating rapid and unplanned expansion across villages.

The panchayati raj department has almost finalised a new set of rules, which will come into force after approval from the law department, a high-level committee, the state cabinet and the legislature. Once implemented, no multi-storey structure will be allowed in rural areas without an approved building plan.

Panchayati raj minister Dipak Prakash said, “Bihar is witnessing rapid urbanisation while unplanned construction activities are also increasing in non-planned areas.” He added, “Such developments are leading to violations of building by-laws and causing revenue losses to the govt.” The minister added, “The proposed move is aimed at creating a regulatory mechanism to bring transparency to rural construction activities.”

Under the proposed framework, a regulatory authority on the lines of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Rera) will be set up to approve building plans for multi-storey projects in rural areas. Projects exceeding 500 square metres will have to be registered with the authority.

Builders will be required to keep 70% of the money collected from buyers in a separate bank account, which can be used only for the concerned project. Delays in possession may attract penalties and compensation with interest. Developers will also have to disclose project layouts, approvals and construction progress details.

Officials said builders will remain liable for structural defects or construction-related issues for five years after completion, free of cost. Buyers will be able to approach the regulatory body for grievance redressal, which will ensure faster dispute resolution. The rules will also mandate clear disclosure of built-up and carpet area to prevent overcharging and misleading claims.

The proposed norms will apply only to projects above 500 square metres. Smaller residential units will remain outside its ambit. In rural areas, houses up to two storeys will not require mandatory map approval, while buildings above two floors will need a No Objection Certificate from the designated authority before construction begins.