The construction permit process, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has drastically reduced the number of documents required for various permissions. This change is expected to enhance efficiency and facilitate smoother operations within the construction sector.
The overhaul has seen the number of documents necessary for obtaining development permissions drop from 41 to 20. Similarly, the documentation required for an occupancy certificate has been reduced from 28 to 24. For Transfer Development Rights (TDR) and Floor Space Index (FSI) generation and utilisation, the requirements have been cut from 22 to 17 documents. Additionally, the documents needed for plinth checking certifications have been slashed from 11 to six.
An order issued by the PMRDA’s planning department on July 26 mandates all departments to adhere to the new, simplified procedures. This initiative aims to expedite the processing of various services, including development permissions, plinth checking certificates, occupancy certificates, TDR generation and utilisation, sky-sign/hoarding permissions, Gunthewari regularisation, Intimation of Disapproval (IOD), site elevation certificates, and renewal of commencement certificates. These applications are typically submitted by licensed architects or registered engineers.
An official from PMRDA commented on the development, stating that the reduction in the number of required documents is designed to eliminate delays and improve the overall process. “Previously, the excessive documentation caused significant delays and inconveniences for citizens. By simplifying the process, we aim to enhance our operations and adhere to the First In – First Out principle, as part of our ‘ease of doing business’ policy,” the official said. To ensure the completeness of all building permission files, they will now be reviewed by the assistant town planner or planning assistant. The relevant officer will also calculate technical scrutiny fees upfront to ensure full payment is made before the case is accepted. Moreover, the management of cases will be facilitated through a software system to guarantee fair and timely processing.
The procedural improvements and new scrutiny formats for all case types will be communicated to architects and technical advisors via email, WhatsApp groups, and PMRDA’s official website. These measures are expected to ensure accurate and prompt resolution of all applications, fostering a more efficient and transparent process. By reducing the bureaucratic burden, the PMRDA’s initiative represents a crucial step towards creating a more business-friendly environment, encouraging development, and facilitating the timely execution of construction projects within the Pune Metropolitan Region.
