Kolkata eases building norms for small plots
In a significant move to streamline urban housing and curb unauthorised construction, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has introduced key relaxations in building regulations for small plot owners. The initiative aims to encourage legal construction by easing space requirements, reducing penalties, and ensuring swift approval of building plans. These changes, primarily targeting plots between 300 and 2,100 square feet, are expected to bring relief to thousands of property owners struggling with outdated regulations that often forced them into informal or illegal construction.
Mayor Firhad Hakim announced that the civic body would allow even the smallest plots, ranging from 300 to 450 square feet, to accommodate three-storey structures, a major shift from previous restrictions. Additionally, the penalty for regularising unauthorised constructions in these areas has been significantly slashed—from a prohibitive ₹3.2 lakh to a far more affordable ₹42,000. By making compliance financially viable, the city administration hopes to curb the mushrooming of structurally unsound, illegally constructed buildings that have become a pressing concern in several localities.
The urgency behind these regulatory changes stems from Kolkata’s ongoing battle against the proliferation of unauthorised structures, particularly on thika land and in densely populated colonies. Many of these buildings, constructed without proper approvals or adherence to safety norms, have shown signs of structural distress, with some even tilting dangerously due to poor foundation work. Recognising the risks, the KMC has introduced mandatory structural assessments for new constructions. Prospective builders must now engage registered architects or structural engineers, who will oversee the foundation work under the civic body’s scrutiny, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
City officials emphasise that the new framework is not merely about regularising existing structures but is part of a broader effort to foster planned urban growth. By incentivising legal construction, the civic authorities hope to limit haphazard development while preventing unscrupulous promoters from exploiting vulnerable property owners. To expedite the transition, KMC has committed to clearing building plan applications within 15 days, ensuring a more efficient approval process. While the relaxations provide much-needed relief, urban planners stress the need for complementary measures such as infrastructure upgrades and stricter enforcement to prevent future violations. The initiative marks a step towards balancing Kolkata’s housing demands with sustainable urban governance, but its long-term success will hinge on vigilant oversight and civic participation.
