Norms relaxed, min requirement to register plots 100 sq yards now in Gurugram!

MCG Commissioner PC Meena said that earlier the regularisation and sub-division was allowed for plots with a minimum area of 200 sq yards, and now it has been changed to 100 sq yards.

No OCs to four-floor buildings without plan nod: DTCP

According to DTCP officials, many residential plot owners have constructed four-storey buildings whereas they got approval for only two floors.

GURUGRAM: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has issued directions to officials of its planning wing not to issue occupation certificate (OCs) to residential properties where owners have constructed four-storey buildings without prior approval of the building plan.

According to DTCP officials, many residential plot owners have constructed four-storey buildings whereas they got approval for only two floors. They constructed stilt plus four floors hoping that they would get the building plan revised later, but with the recent restrictions on four floors announced by the state government, additional construction is now illegal.

Sources claimed that many property owners are approaching officials to regularise the additional construction by depositing a fee and getting the revised plan approved as per previous norms. Such property owners are in a fix about the future of their building, as some of them have accepted token amounts from buyers.

Credit: ETRealty
 

Circle rates increased in Gurugram's main housing hubs.

After the revision, the circle rates in sectors adjoining the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), Golf Course Road and Dwarka Expressway - areas where real estate has seen a boom - have increased by up to 30%.

GURUGRAM: The Haryana government has increased circle rates, a move that is unlikely to have an immediate effect on the price of premium properties but might make registries dearer.

After the revision, the circle rates in sectors adjoining the Southern Peripheraal Road (SPR), Golf Course Road and Dwarka Expressway - areas where real estate has seen a boom - have increased by up to 30%. The rates in commercial hubs have also seen a 10% rise.

Also referred to as collector's rate, circle rate is the minimum value that state governments set for the transfer of a plot, built-up house, apartment or a commercial property. Builders are not allowed to sell flats and homes below the rate set by the government.

Credit: ETRealty

Property use changed in Gurugram, 16 teams to examine tax loss

A total of 1,244 commercial properties in the city have changed their category to residential properties, 514 to industrial use, 95 to institutional use and 403 to vacant plots.

GURUGRAM: MCG has constituted 16 teams to check tax evasion by changing the use of properties from commercial to residential, and industrial or institutional and submit a report by April 30.

A total of 1,244 commercial properties in the city have changed their category to residential properties, 514 to industrial use, 95 to institutional use and 403 to vacant plots.

The MCG officials said this change in property categories was found after a private agency, hired by the MCG to carry out a property tax survey, submitted its report last year.

The MCG teams will now verify if the property categories were changed. Teams will also check the public parking sites, including those in shopping malls, which are charging parking fees from residents.

Commercial properties in the city, such as shopping malls, can get a tax rebate if they provide free parking to the public.

“We have found anomalies after a private agency carried out a survey of properties in the city last year. 16 teams have been formed to check tax evasion. The teams will check all the commercial properties, which have registered a change in their category. Besides the teams, four joint commissioners and three additionaal commissioners will randomly check 5% of these properties each so that the cases are verified. I have asked the teams to submit a report by April 30. The aim of this exercise is to stop loss of revenue to the civic body,” MCG commissioner PC Meena said.

For a residential property, the tax for the ground floor is Rs 1 per sq yard with a plot size of up to 300 sq yards whereas, for a commercial space, the tax for the ground floor is Rs 24 per sq yard with a plot size up to Rs 50 sq yards.

The MCG officials said that the change from commercial to any other category including residential and institutional implies that the property owner has to pay less amount of tax. Property tax is one of the major sources of income for the civic body.
 

Credit : ETRealty

Gurugram: 19 affordable housing projects get government's approval

The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has issued licences for 19 new affordable housing projects, which are likely to be launched in Gurgaon soon on land released as part of the increased allotment for affordable housing.

GURUGRAM: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has issued licences for 19 new affordable housing projects, which are likely to be launched in Gurugram soon on land released as part of the increased allotment for affordable housing. It follows the rise in demand for affordable housing, bucking the slow recovery of the real estate sector, keeping hopes of a full-scaale revival alive.

During the past year, DTCP received 69 applications for affordable housing licences in Gurugram, after it invited applications in January 2008, once the state amended its Affordable Housing Policy 2013 in October 2017 to extend an existing cap of 300 acre in Gurugram district to 1,935 acre. During this period, projects involving around 11,000 new housing units were launched in Gurugram, of which around 5,000 are in the affordable category. Of the 69 applications received so far, DTCP has cleared 19 applications and issued licences to them, rejected five due to various shortcomings, and are processing 45 others.

Pradeep Aggarwal, chairman of National Council on Affordable Housing, said, “The majority of the people living in Gurugram and NCR comprises the salaried class, , which has driven up the demand for affordable housing in the real estate sector. Of around 26,000 new units launched in NCR last year, 47% are in the affordable segment, he added.

Talking about sales, Surinder Singh of GLS Group said affordable housing witnessed a 22% growth during 2018, adding that demand for affordable housing is going through its emanating phase, and is expected to see a turnaround in the next 10 years.

DTCP director general K M Pandurang said, “We’ve issued 19 licences, and are processing another 45 applications.” On the rejections, he said after examining the cases, DTCP has conveyed its observations to applicants. As and when they remove those deficiencies, licences will be granted.

Based on the earlier cap, DTCP had issued affordable housing licences for societies covering just 300 acre, on which around 46,000 units are already being built in sectors along Northern Peripheral Road (NPR), also known as Dwarka Expressway, and Southern Peripheral Road (SPR).

As per the development plan, Gurugram district is covered under three plans — one each for Gurugram, Sohna and Gwalpahari. All three have been amended thus: Gurugram-Manesar Development Plan will now reserve 1,650 acre for affordable housing, while Gwalpahari will have 15 acre and Sohna 270 acre for the same. Based on this, sectors 1-115 of Gurugram will eventually have around 2.97 lakh units of affordable flats, with a further 48,600 in Sohna and 2,700 in Gwalpahari.
 

Credit : ETRealty

Builders in Gurugram asked to submit layouts for structural test

The structural audit process of 23 highrise residential societies, which was to begin last week, got delayed as developers are yet to furnish building drawings,officials said.

GURUGRAM: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has issued notices to developers to submit building drawings of their projects to start a structural audit process at the earliest.

The structural audit process of 23 highrise residential societies, which was to begin last week, got delayed as developers are yet to furnish building drawings, officials said. Once the drawngs are submitted, the structural audit agencies will calculate the cost of the audit which will be shared between developers and RWAs.

In the order to the management of developer companies, district town planner (enforcement) Manish Yadav said that the structural audit of 23 residential societies is to be carried out by four agencies and developers of these societies have been directed to submit the building drawings in the office of DTP.

“Only after the submission of the drawings, the expenditure on the audit can be estimated and the work can be started. After the amount is assessed, the buildermanagement and RWA will be ordered to share the expenses,” he said.

The societies to be audited in the second phase are CHD Avenue, Paras Dews, Rahea Atharva, Raheja Navodaya, Hermitage Satya, Takshashila Heights, Ansal Estella, Vatika G-21, Wembley Estate, ATS Tourmaline, Indiabulls Centrum Park, Orris Aster Court, GPL Eden Heights, Parsvnath Green Ville, Orris Carnation, Coralwood, Aloha Apartments, Vipul Lavanya, BPTP Park Sareen, Bestech Park View Ananda, NBCC Heights, Hibiscus and others.

In May, the district administration had ordered visual inspection of 55 highrise societies in which four structural audit agencies were to check the buildings on various checkpoints, including overall maintenance of the building, plastering, leakage, seepage, dampness and cracks in the basement, beam, slab and floor dampness, condition of water tanks and shafts built on the roof of the building.

Meanwhile, the second round of structural audit of 15 societies selected in the first phase was to begin from July 10. In the second round, various lab tests were recommended by the structural audit agencies.

“The developers of 15 highrise residential societies, for which visual audit was done and laboratory test were to be done in second round, were issued notices and they were ordered to get the lab test done or take the NOC, consent letter from the RWA and submit it to the DTCP office,” Yadav said.

The Future of Real Estate : Navigating the New Frontier

The real estate industry has always been a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. From the humble beginnings of land bartering to the intricacies of modern property transactions, it has continually adapted to the changing needs and preferences of society. As we step into a new era, marked by technological advancements and shifting paradigms, the real estate sector is poised for a revolution. In this article, we'll explore the exciting developments and trends shaping the future of real estate.

1. The Rise of Proptech

In recent years, the real estate industry has witnessed a transformative force known as Proptech (Property Technology). Proptech encompasses a wide range of technological innovations designed to streamline and enhance various aspects of real estate, from property listings and virtual tours to property management and investment analysis.

One of the most notable trends is the utilization of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in real estate. Prospective buyers can now take immersive virtual tours of properties from the comfort of their homes, providing a more engaging and efficient way to explore potential homes.

Additionally, blockchain technology is gaining traction in property transactions, offering enhanced security and transparency. Smart contracts, powered by blockchain, enable automated and secure real estate transactions, reducing the need for intermediaries and paperwork.

2. Sustainable Living and Eco-friendly Designs

The growing awareness of climate change and environmental sustainability is influencing the real estate market significantly. Today's buyers are increasingly seeking energy-efficient and eco-friendly properties. Builders and developers are responding by incorporating green building practices, such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials, into their projects.

Furthermore, the concept of eco-friendly communities is on the rise. These developments prioritize sustainability, offering amenities like communal gardens, electric vehicle charging stations, and efficient waste management systems.

3. The Suburban Renaissance

The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a shift in housing preferences, with many urban dwellers opting for suburban living. The desire for more space, access to nature, and reduced population density drove this trend. Real estate developers are now focusing on creating suburban communities that provide urban conveniences, such as shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities, to meet the evolving needs of suburban residents.

4. Co-living and Flexible Housing

The traditional model of homeownership is not the only option on the table anymore. Co-living spaces, which offer shared accommodations with communal areas and flexible lease terms, are gaining popularity among millennials and young professionals. This trend allows individuals to access desirable locations without the long-term commitment of owning a property.

Additionally, flexible housing arrangements, like short-term rentals and furnished apartments, are becoming more common, catering to the needs of those who value mobility and convenience.

5. The Influence of Remote Work

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the remote work trend, making location less of a constraint for employees. As a result, people are reevaluating where they want to live, and this shift is impacting the real estate market. Areas with robust internet infrastructure and a high quality of life are attracting remote workers, influencing property demand in unexpected places.

Conclusion

The real estate industry is entering a new era characterized by technology-driven innovation, sustainability, and changing lifestyle preferences. Proptech is reshaping the way we buy and sell properties, sustainable living is becoming a priority, suburban living is experiencing a resurgence, flexible housing options are on the rise, and remote work is transforming property markets.

As we navigate this new frontier of real estate, it's essential for industry professionals and buyers alike to stay informed and adapt to these evolving trends. The future of real estate is promising, full of exciting possibilities that will continue to reshape the way we live and invest in property.

New circle rates in Gurugram likely from next month

The new rates were supposed to have been implemented from January 1, but there has been no announcement so far. For now, properties will be registered according to the existing rate.

GURUGRAM: Circles rates in the city are expected to be revised by the end of this month and come into effect from February 1. The new rates were supposed to have been implemented from January 1, but there has been no announcement so far. For now, properties will be registered according to the existing rate.

Haryana government had proposed a 30-80% hike in the circle rates of properties across various categories in the city. A draft was prepared and put up in the public domain in the first week of December to seek suggestions and objections from residents.
Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav said the rates for almost all properties were final, but officials were still examining the rates for flats in group housing societies. The circle rate, he added, will depend on the registry amount for a particular area.

"The new circle rate will be based on the rate at which properties were registered in 2023 in a given area. In some areas, properties were registered at 80-90% above the existing circle rate," he said. "The rates will be increased with an objective to bridge the gap between circle and market prices," he added.
According to the draft prepared last month, circle rates will see a 70% hike in areas such as Golf Course Road, MG Road and along the Dwarka Expressway. In areas like Farrukhnagar, which is emerging as a logistics hub, the rate could see an 87% rise for agricultural land and around 35% for commercial plots.

Similarly, a 40-80% hike in the circle rate has been proposed for agricultural and commercial plots in and around Badshapur. In Wazirabad tehsil area, the circle rate has been proposed for a 60-70% hike for residential and commercial land.
Circle rate is the minimum rate fixed by a government for registration of properties and determining the stamp duty, which varies in localities in keeping with the civic amenities. On an average, Haryana government collects around Rs.125 crore a month in stamp duty in the city.

Circle rates in the city are revised twice a year to match the shooting property market prices. Just out of the pandemic, the district administration had decided not to revise the circle rate last year.

Credit: ET Realty

Gurugram: One-time settlement scheme for EDC dues extended till March end.

The scheme called Samadhan Se Vikas-2021 - was implemented in 2021 and has been extended multiple times since. The last extension was granted till November 15, 2023.

GURUGRAM: Haryana government on Wednesday extended its one-time settlement scheme, conditions for which have been tweaked as well, till March 31 to recover pending external development charges from builders.

The scheme called Samadhan Se Vikas-2021 - was implemented in 2021 and has been extended multiple times since. The last extension was granted till November 15, 2023. To date, the government has recovered EDC of Rs 2,000 crore, but another Rs 14,000 crore is still owed to it.

Additional chief secretary of the department of town and country planning (DTCP) Arun Gupta issued a letter that said: "Under Section 9- A of the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Act, 1975, and Section 11 of the Haryana Scheduled Roads and Controlled Areas Restriction of Unregulated Development Act, 1963, the governor of Haryana is pleased to extend One-time Settlement Scheme-2021 up to March 31, 2024, to enable recovery of long pending EDC dues in respect of license cases and change of land use cases with the amendments."

According to earlier provisions, a developer could clear EDC dues by paying the entire principal amount along with 40% of the outstanding interest and penal interest. The remaining would be waived.

Under the extended scheme, all of the principal amount will have to be paid straight up, while the outstanding and penal interest will be increased 1% every month if the scheme is being availed after November 15, 2023.

For instance, if a builder has opted for the settlement scheme by December 15, 2023, 41% of the outstanding and penal interests.

If not this, developers will now have the second option to pay half of the principal amount along with 6.5% of the outstanding interest and penal interest. This, too, will increase 1% every month. The remaining half of the outstanding amount can be paid in four installments every six months with an interest rate of 8% per annum on any delay, and 2% per annum on any default.

Four years on, Dwarka expressway link is set for a revamp

The Rs 11.8 crore project will involve reconstruction of the main carriageway, surface drain and footpaths by Nov this year. The metropolitan authority will also construct slip roads, streetlights at junctions and road safety furniture such as road studs, cat's eyes and bollards.

GURUGRAM: Work on the revamp of the road dividing sectors 102 and 102A started on Saturday. The 1.3km road, which leads to the Dwarka Expressway from new sectors, had been lying in disrepair for almost four years, residents said.

The Rs 11.8 crore project will involve reconstruction of the main carriageway, surface drain and footpaths by Nov this year. The metropolitan authority will also construct slip roads, streetlights at junctions and road safety furniture such as road studs, cat's eyes and bollards.

Once completed, the road will provide seamless connectivity to Dwarka Expressway. "Upgrade work of the sector 102-102A road has started and we are hoping to complete the project within nine months. The redevelopment of these roads is essential to ensure smooth flow of traffic and provide better commuter experience in new sector areas. It will further bolster their connectivity with Dwarka Expressway and the upcoming Sheetla Mata medical college as well," a senior GMDA official said.

Meanwhile, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is carrying out the construction of an underpass at Kherki Majra as part of Dwarka Expressway. The underpass, likely to be completed within the next four months, will provide direct access to Hero Honda Chowk from sectors 102A and 102.

Hari Bhagwan, president of Sector 102's Oyster Grande RWA, said they have been eagerly waiting for the sector road's revamp.

"I have been living here for the past four years and the road is in a terrible condition with innumerable potholes. Patchwork doesn't last for long. We have been demanding that authorities take action. We hope for smoother road connectivity," he added.

"The redevelopment of this road comes at the right time, as NHAI is already carrying out the underpass work, which is likely to be completed soon. This, coupled with the road upgrade, will surely come as a big relief to residents living in the area," said Sunil Sareen, a resident of Imperial Garden in the same sector.

Moreover, state govt is planning to construct a 9km, six-lane road from the AIIMS Bhadsa to Dwarka Expressway through sectors 102 and 102A. This is a crucial road as it will not only provide a direct link to the speedway, but also provide an alternative route to AIIMS Bhadsa from the city. A senior PWD official said that land acquisition is currently under way.

TOI had last month reported that GMDA is also planning the revamp and strengthening of three other roads in the area, each 1.8km long - those dividing sectors 103 and 106, sectors 102A and 103 and sectors 106 and 109. Work on these stretches is likely to start by Feb end, an official said. The project is being executed at a cost of Rs 40.4 crore and is likely to take nine months to complete. Most of these roads were last constructed by the erstwhile HUDA (now HSVP) in 2014 and were handed over to GMDA in 2018. In June last year, GMDA approved the redevelopment of these roads.

Credit : TOI

Haryana's Chief Secretary, Sanjeev Kaushal, announced on Wednesday the establishment of a metro rail link connecting Delhi with the National Cancer Institute at Badsa in Jhajjar district. Kaushal, also the chairman of the Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation (HMRTC), made this declaration during the board meeting, emphasizing the state government's commitment to fortifying connectivity through strategic infrastructure development.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) at Badsa, a specialty tertiary healthcare institute dedicated to cancer care, is set to receive enhanced accessibility with the proposed metro link from New Delhi. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has sanctioned a fresh ridership assessment, conducted by leading consultancy firm M/s RITES, to gauge the potential demand for this route, underlining the government's meticulous planning and attention to detail.

In addition to this significant project, Haryana's metro expansion endeavors extend to various other key routes. A techno-feasibility study is currently underway to explore extending the existing metro line from Ballabhgarh to Palwal, covering a distance of approximately 25 kilometers, in response to the region's growing transportation demands.

Further demonstrating the state's commitment to enhancing metro connectivity, the project from Sector-56 to Panchgaon stretch in Gurugram has been expanded to include the route from Sector-56 to Vatika Chowk. This extension, spanning 36 kilometers, is poised to revolutionize intra-city travel within Gurugram, catering to the burgeoning needs of residents and commuters alike.

Efforts are also actively underway to explore innovative solutions to transportation challenges, such as the feasibility of constructing a double-decker viaduct for a potential metro line connecting Faridabad and Gurugram. This forward-thinking approach underscores Haryana's dedication to embracing cutting-edge technology and infrastructure solutions to address evolving urban mobility needs.

The recent sanctioning of the Gurugram Metro Rail Project by the Government of India marks a significant milestone in the state's transportation landscape. This transformative project, connecting Millennium City Centre and Cyber City, promises to redefine intra-city connectivity within Gurugram, aligning with the government's vision of sustainable urban development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's virtual laying of the foundation stone for the Gurugram Metro Rail project underscores the project's national significance and government support. With the establishment of the Gurugram Metro Rail Limited (GMRL) and the appointment of key officials, including D Thara as Chairman, the project is poised for swift and efficient implementation.

The introduction of 2.9-meter coaches in Gurugram's existing Rapid Metro system is another notable initiative aimed at enhancing passenger capacity and system efficiency. This forward-looking approach exemplifies Haryana's commitment to leveraging technological advancements to optimize public transportation services for residents and visitors alike.

In conclusion, Haryana's metro projects herald a new era of connectivity and mobility, positioning the state as a frontrunner in sustainable urban transportation solutions. With meticulous planning, innovative infrastructure development, and government support, these projects are set to transform the transportation landscape, enriching the lives of millions across the state.

Credit : TOI

While the topic of discontinuing cheque payments for property tax in Delhi is significant, expanding it to 2000 words would require delving into various aspects such as the history of property tax collection in Delhi, the challenges faced by municipal corporations, the benefits of digital payments, and the broader context of digital transformation in India. Here's how the article could be expanded:
 

In recent years, Delhi has been at the forefront of technological advancements and digital transformation. As part of this ongoing journey towards a more digitally inclusive society, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has announced a significant policy shift regarding property tax payments. Effective July 1st, 2024, the MCD will no longer accept cheque payments for property tax, ushering in a new era of digital payments in the capital city.

To understand the significance of this policy change, examining the historical context of property tax collection in Delhi is essential. Property tax has long been a primary source of revenue for municipal corporations, funding critical services such as sanitation, street lighting, and infrastructure development. Traditionally, property owners would settle their tax dues through physical means, including cash, cheques, or demand drafts. However, this conventional approach has its limitations, including the risk of fraud, delays in processing, and manual errors.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort by the government to promote digital payments and reduce reliance on cash-based transactions. The introduction of initiatives such as Digital India, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has laid the groundwork for a more digitally enabled economy. By embracing digital channels, the MCD aims to align with these broader national objectives and leverage technology to improve service delivery and governance.

The decision to discontinue cheque payments for property tax is not arbitrary but stems from a strategic vision to modernize tax collection processes and enhance operational efficiency. Cheque payments are inherently prone to inefficiencies, requiring manual processing, physical transportation, and verification procedures. Moreover, the use of cheques entails additional costs and administrative overheads for both taxpayers and the MCD.

In contrast, digital payments offer numerous benefits, including convenience, speed, and transparency. Property owners can now settle their tax dues from the comfort of their homes using online banking platforms, mobile wallets, or electronic fund transfers. This shift towards digital payments not only simplifies the payment process but also reduces the risk of errors and ensures real-time tracking of transactions.

By embracing digital payments, the MCD aims to streamline tax collection processes, improve revenue mobilization, and enhance the overall taxpayer experience. Digital platforms enable seamless integration with existing databases, allowing for more accurate assessment of property values and tax liabilities. Additionally, digital transactions leave behind a digital trail, making it easier to detect and prevent fraudulent activities.

The transition away from cheque payments underscores the MCD's commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of its citizens. It reflects a proactive approach towards embracing digital innovation and adapting to changing consumer preferences. Moreover, by encouraging the adoption of digital payment channels, the MCD aims to promote financial inclusion and reduce the dependence on cash-based transactions.

However, the success of this policy change hinges on effective communication and outreach efforts. The MCD must educate property owners about the available digital payment options, address any concerns or apprehensions they may have, and provide adequate support and assistance throughout the transition process. Furthermore, the MCD should collaborate with banks, fintech companies, and other stakeholders to ensure the seamless integration of digital payment systems and minimize any disruptions.

Beyond the immediate benefits of streamlining tax collection processes, the shift towards digital payments has broader implications for the economy as a whole. Digital transactions contribute to the formalization of the economy, enabling better tax compliance, and reducing the prevalence of black money. Moreover, digital payments facilitate financial inclusion by expanding access to banking services and credit facilities, particularly for underserved segments of the population.

In the context of India's ambitious digitalization agenda, initiatives like the discontinuation of cheque payments for property tax in Delhi serve as catalysts for change. They demonstrate the government's commitment to embracing technology as a driver of socio-economic development and inclusive growth. As other cities and states across the country embark on similar digital transformation journeys, the lessons learned from Delhi's experience will serve as valuable insights for policymakers and administrators alike.

In conclusion, the decision by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to stop accepting cheque payments for property tax marks a significant milestone in the city's digital transformation journey. By embracing digital payments, the MCD aims to modernize tax collection processes, enhance transparency, and improve the overall taxpayer experience. While the transition may pose initial challenges, the long-term benefits are clear: a more efficient, inclusive, and digitally enabled economy that empowers citizens and drives sustainable growth.

Article Source  :  Economictimes