"Rajasthan Introduces New Draft Township Policy, Seeks Public Input"

The Rajasthan government has introduced a fresh draft township policy and building by-laws, inviting suggestions from the public and stakeholders. According to the proposed policy, developers will bear responsibility for maintaining units sold in their townships for a period of seven years. These townships will only be permitted in designated areas authorized by the authorities, ensuring essential amenities such as water and electricity supply are readily available.

For integrated residential townships, developers must provide essential infrastructure including roads, electricity, and water. Group housing developments will be mandated to occupy 40% of the township area. Additionally, townships larger than 2 hectares must allocate at least 3% of the space for playgrounds, and reserve 2.5% of the total land for community facilities, which cannot be sold for seven years. If maintenance or development obligations are not met, the urban body or development authority reserves the right to sell these reserved plots for necessary improvements.

Under the new building by-laws, construction of tall buildings on small plots within housing schemes and city colonies will be restricted. Builders will also be prohibited from exceeding the prescribed number of flats specified in the policy.

Furthermore, group housing and multi-residential units must provide one car parking space per unit, regardless of the area's size.

Atmaram Gupta, Chairman of Jaipur’s ARG Group, stated, “We are currently reviewing the draft by-laws. Restricting high-rise buildings on small plots is crucial, as they often lead to numerous issues for buyers. Builders should carefully assess the proposed regulations before offering feedback.”

A small plot owner, speaking anonymously, commented, “We are familiar with the likely outcomes of the new by-laws. Civic officials and builders tend to find loopholes together. While there may be initial strictness, it typically returns to business as usual after a brief period. This cycle has persisted for decades despite multiple revisions to the by-laws, with illegal constructions continuing unabated.”

The draft policy and by-laws aim to streamline urban development and ensure sustainable growth in Rajasthan's residential sectors, emphasizing public participation in shaping future urban landscapes.

BS