CHANDIGARH: Significant reforms are set to be introduced to regulate building violations and property misuse in Chandigarh, with the administration proposing structured penalties, clearer property definitions, limits on fines, and increased administrative authority to tackle persistent urban development enforcement issues.
These changes will be implemented through amendments to the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, which will include new definitions in Section 2 of the Act categorizing residential, commercial, institutional, and other property types.
A residential building is defined as any building utilized or modified for human habitation, including all associated garages and out-buildings.
Commercial buildings encompass any structure or space used as shops, markets, or complexes for wholesale and retail sales, including offices, restaurants, hotels, motels, resorts, boarding houses, and various service facilities within the same structure.
An institutional building refers to those erected by government or semi-government entities or registered trusts/societies for medical or therapeutic purposes, as well as auditoriums and complexes designated for educational, cultural, or social activities.
A “Warehouse or industrial building” includes facilities where products or materials are manufactured, assembled, or processed.
Furthermore, the chief administrator will be granted the authority to direct architectural standards, zoning regulations, building uses, and design specifications.
A notable reform broadens the appeal process. Previously restricted under certain sections, now any aggrieved individual may appeal decisions made by the estate officer to the chief administrator within 30 days of notification.
To ensure legal certainty and uphold earlier enforcement actions, the proposed amendments will encompass a validation clause intended to retroactively endorse rules, penalties, orders, and procedures that were executed under the Act prior to the new Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) [Amendment] Act.
