Mumbai: Back in 2009, the municipal commissioner at the time, Jairaj Phatak, introduced a system designed to modernize and streamline the building plan submission and approval process. He envisioned a system where all building blueprints would be digitally submitted using compact discs, and subsequent approvals and concessions would be granted online. Furthermore, the approved plan would be showcased on the civic body’s website, allowing the public gain easy access.
The goal of this initiative was simple: to give potential property buyers confidence that the property adheres to legality and ensure transparency throughout the real estate transaction.
Initially, the process was tested in the eastern part of the city, an area known for receiving fewer complex plans. The day that both the digital and hard copies of the plan were submitted to the authorities was officially recognized as the day of submission. Any necessary corrections would be handled exclusively by designated officials, who were required to keep their superiors informed. This protocol was intended to be followed meticulously at every level of the approval process.
The record of concession was submitted as hard copy, but every approval, including concessions, was slated for publication on the BMC website. Every revision to a plan would result in uploading the updated version.
However, the system faced an unexpected hurdle: not a single construction blueprint was ever successfully uploaded to the website. According to reports, the building proposal department was responsible for undermining the system, ensuring that it never became fully operational.
The municipal commissioner, Subodh Kumar, attempted to revive the system towards the end of his time in office, but his efforts were thwarted by a lack of political will. As a result, many flat owners, despite obtaining loans for their homes, continue to live in fear of potential demolitions in the future.
Organizations such as the Engineers, Architects and Town Planners’ Association have long campaigned for the civic body to consistently upload all approved plans. When buying a property, buyers should remember to confirm all approved documents and certificates. Builders are known to be reluctant to grant approved plans, and without a CTS number, a buyer cannot seek information from the civic body.