Cabinet approves urban development reforms and restoration of financial autonomy to HPU

The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to include reforms in urban development and town and country planning by reducing the quagmire of committees and steps involved in taking approvals for building plans. The Cabinet also approved the proposal to amend the controversial Section 35-A of HP University Act to restore its administrative and financial autonomy,which is likely to come up for discussion in the Winter Session of the Assembly,and making provision for free travel to schoolchildren who cover eight kilometres or more every day to reach schools.

A Single Umbrella Committee under the Shimla Municipal Corporation will be constituted to consider building plans in core,restricted and heritage areas. The committee will meet at least once in a month. No decision was taken on lifting ban on construction in the green belt of Shimla town.

Simplifying the process for the rest of the state,registered architects will be empanelled and designated authorities to approve building plans or maps as per regulations and bylaws. However,the Special Area Development Authority will be empowered to check any such plan submitted by the registered architect to verify the authenticity of such plan. In case of breach of law by the architects,penal action will be taken against them.

The Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal also approved changes in regulation for according planning permission and change in land use in the core area of Shimla by allowing new construction for commercial purpose,too.