Haryana Government Approves Construction of Stilt and Four Floors in Few Specific Residential Sectors

The Haryana government has approved the construction of buildings with a stilt and four floors in specific residential sectors. This decision, based on recommendations from an expert committee, has elicited mixed reactions from developers and residents.

Key Features of the New Policy

The new policy allows for the construction of four floors with stilts in sectors where the layout plan permits four dwelling units per plot. Additionally, plots adjoining 10-meter roads, where the layout plan allows three dwelling units per plot, can also have four floors, provided there is a mutual consent agreement with all adjoining plot allottees.

For buildings constructed without approved plans, violators can apply for composition of offence by paying a penalty ten times the prescribed rate for unapproved constructions.

Background and Reactions

The stilt-plus-four-floors policy was initially introduced in 2017 through an amendment to the Haryana Building Code. Registrations of the fourth floor as a separate dwelling unit began in 2018. However, the policy faced significant opposition from residents due to concerns over infrastructure strain, damage to adjoining houses, and congestion on inner roads.

After extended protests, the state government rolled back the policy in February 2023 and formed an expert committee to reassess the issue. The new policy reflects the committee's recommendations.

Developers' Perspective

Real estate developers have welcomed the decision, viewing it as a positive step towards increasing housing availability. Chirag Gehlot, Vice President of Central Park, highlighted that while the decision is beneficial, obtaining neighbors' consent might be challenging due to concerns about privacy, sunlight, and increased density.

Residents' Concerns

Residents, however, have expressed apprehension. Baljeet Singh Rathee, President of DLF Qutub Enclave RWA, argued that the policy would exacerbate congestion, pollution, and noise. He emphasized that the increased population density would worsen parking and traffic issues, making daily life more challenging.

The Haryana government's new policy on stilt-plus-four-floors construction aims to balance housing needs with infrastructure capacities. While developers see it as a boost for housing availability, residents fear the repercussions on their quality of life. As the state moves towards elections, the impact and acceptance of this policy will be closely watched.