The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has issued a notice warning architects, supervisors, structural engineers, and property owners against submitting false information during building plan approvals. This action follows several building collapses in the city.
Strict Measures Under Unified Building Bye-Laws
According to the notice, as per the Unified Building Bye-Laws (UBBL), 2016, submitting false information, making misrepresentations in building plans, concealing material facts, or furnishing incorrect certificates will invite serious action. The notice states that besides blacklisting, debarment, or any other action deemed appropriate, strict measures under applicable laws will be taken against defaulters.
Jurisdiction and Approval Process
Officials said several residential areas fall under DDA's jurisdiction, where the authority auctions plots and constructs apartments. For construction on such plots, owners must get their building plans prepared by architects empanelled with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and submit them to DDA's building department for approval.
Sanctions are granted based on the submitted plans. To prevent misrepresentation, including unauthorised changes in approved plans or construction beyond permissible limits, strict action will be taken against both property owners and professionals. The objective is to minimise the risk of future accidents. Similar action will apply to structural engineers and supervisors found submitting false information.
Advice to Registered Professionals
DDA advised all registered professionals to exercise due diligence and ensure that all plans, certificates, reports, undertakings, and documents submitted to the authority are accurate, complete, and compliant with statutory provisions.
Clarification on Unauthorised Colonies
Officials clarified that most unauthorised colonies and urban villages do not fall under DDA's building plan approval framework. When asked about illegal extensions or alterations in flats, officials said due procedure is followed whenever DDA receives complaints.
