In an effort to combat unauthorized constructions, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has implemented a rigorous policy for builders and property owners. It is now compulsory for builders and property owners to present completion certificates prior to transferring flats or properties to purchasers.
The approval of layout (map approval) will only be granted once both the completion certificate and occupancy certificate (OC) are provided. This initiative is a reaction to the persistent problem of illegal constructions that have been bypassing official approvals and permissions. Such constructions have resulted in considerable financial losses for the city corporation.
The BBMP has also recognized thousands of these unauthorized buildings but has not yet undertaken any significant demolition efforts. A BBMP representative stated, “In response to this, the BBMP has established a series of guidelines designed to enforce stricter measures to prevent unauthorized buildings.
City planners and sub-divisional engineers will now be mandated to perform regular inspections every two months to ensure adherence to the approved building plans. Reports regarding any infractions will be forwarded by the relevant authorities to higher officials for further action.” In accordance with a Supreme Court ruling, any construction that strays from the approved layout will incur penalties, including the immediate disconnection of water and electricity services for such unauthorized buildings.
The BBMP has instructed the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) and the Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to terminate the temporary or permanent services provided to these structures. Furthermore, officials who fail to prevent illegal constructions will be held responsible under Section 252 of the BBMP Act-2020 and the Karnataka Civil Service (Conduct) Rules.
