Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal on Monday approved recommendations for simplifying the process for sanction of building plans besides emphasising the need to empanel architects and engineers to certify the same.
Presiding over a review meeting of Governance Reforms, Sukhbir pulled up the officers for inordinate delay in sanctioning of building plans, and fixed a deadline for July 1 to come up with a plan to simplify the entire process.
He also ordered for conduct of internal audits to ascertain backlog as far as building plans were concerned, besides fixing accountability of authorities concerned so that the people do not face hindrances in getting their building plans approved.
The meeting also focused on the need of simplifying the process of plan sanctioning by informing the Secretary Housing that the designs, plans and structures, which would be prepared by certified engineers or architects be considered as deemed approved, if falling between the building bylaws.
Deputy Chief Minister also gave in principal approval to common building bylaws and asked to make these bylaws more simplified.
On the issue of unequal fee structure for getting building plan approved in different parts of the state, he said that the case for uniform policy could be considered. He issued directions to all Municipal Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, Joint Commissioners and Executive Officers of Nagar Council to remain present in their respective offices on every Monday from 10 am onwards to redress the public plaints. Officers would redress the grievances on the spot by taking necessary steps, he added.
Deputy Chief Minister also asked the Secretary Housing to introduce a State Central Helpline on the lines of 181 for registration of complaints pertaining to local Bodies Department, which would be monitored on daily basis from high ups of department.