The Telangana high court has said that the HMDA cannot auction 40 vacant plots in this layout without first ascertaining whether it was over and above the 10% space earmarked for open areas, common facilities and parks for the residents.
Justice P Madhavi Devi pronounced the order after hearing the 2018 petition filed by the association opposing the proposed auction of plots by HMDA. The residents had expressed an apprehension that the auction would reduce the common area to below the mandatory 10%.
The judge directed that the HMDA and GHMC officials along with representatives of the association conduct a survey of the layout.
“If the survey confirms the fears of the association, then the auction cannot be held. Needless to say, if the proposed auction is only for those plots which do not encroach into the open areas of Mayuri Nagar, then the auction can be held. Officials should ensure that 10% of the area is retained for open spaces and common facilities. Without the approval of the state government, even HMDA cannot change this layout rule,” the judge said.