Individuals intending to construct homes in Prayagraj can now feel relieved. The recent endorsement of the new Building Construction and Development Byelaws 2025 by the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet means that those building on plots of up to 100 sqm will no longer be required to obtain approval for building plans.
This initiative is designed to streamline the construction process and will be applied across various development authorities, including the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA).
The introduction of the new Building Construction and Development Bylaws 2025 will significantly benefit middle-class families in Prayagraj. They will no longer need to pay approximately Rs 1.25 lakh for map approval fees and endure a protracted process involving multiple clearances. This alteration will facilitate and expedite the homebuilding process, rendering it more accessible and affordable for many. Additionally, the new bylaws permit more versatile usage of buildings.
For example, shops may be established in residences situated along broad roads. Provided there is sufficient parking space, professionals such as doctors, lawyers, architects, and designers will be allowed to run offices from their homes. Schools that do not have hostels or dormitories will be permitted to operate on roads that are at least 9 metres wide, and shopping malls can be constructed on roads that are 18 metres wide.
Approvals for group housing projects will also be simplified for plots up to 1,500 square metres. Nevertheless, these modifications will not extend to certain restricted zones such as the Mela zone, illegal colonies, and unauthorized plotted developments. In these regions, construction without map approval will still be prohibited. The new policy is also expected to result in the de-sealing of previously sealed structures, most of which were constructed on plots near 100 square metres.
The implementation of the new bylaws is anticipated to significantly enhance housing and retail activities, while also boosting revenue for the PDA. PDA vice-chairman Amit Pal Sharma remarked, “While the Cabinet has sanctioned the new bylaws, we are still awaiting an official government order. Once it is issued, the regulations will be enforced throughout the city.”
“We will conduct a training session for the staff concerning the regulations established by the new bylaws, and this entire initiative is aimed at the greater benefit of the homeowners. In conjunction with the training, the software will also be updated,” stated Sharma. In the meantime, Jitendra Singh, who has recently been appointed as the town planner for PDA, officially took charge on Friday. Having previously served in Jhansi, Singh assumed his new responsibilities in the presence of Sharma and PDA secretary Ajit Singh. The position had been unoccupied for a week following the transfer of the former chief town planner, TP Singh.
