Himachal Pradesh Government Promotes Affordable, Eco-Friendly Housing Development
The Himachal Pradesh government is making significant strides in promoting planned development to provide affordable, environment-friendly, and better housing facilities. This initiative is particularly crucial given the state's challenging hilly terrain. Urban Development and Housing Minister Rajesh Dharmani highlighted this during a review meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
Dharmani stated that RERA plays a crucial role in protecting consumer interests in the real estate sector and in resolving property-related disputes. The authority ensures transparency by providing homebuyers with essential information on real estate projects, thereby strengthening consumer confidence.
Officials at the meeting reported that 269 real estate projects and 159 real estate agents are currently registered with RERA in the state. Of the 194 complaints received so far, 144 have been resolved. Hearings are being conducted online through WebEx, leveraging information technology to ensure efficient and transparent processes.
An amount of Rs 1.2 crore has been deposited in the state treasury by RERA, while nearly Rs 7 crore has been refunded to homebuyers. The minister emphasized that RERA's role in empowering homebuyers and ensuring the timely execution of projects is vital. Developers are required to provide detailed project plans, layouts, and information on the materials proposed to be used in construction.
This level of transparency ensures better quality projects for buyers. Through geo-tagged photographs and videos of projects submitted by executing agencies, the concerned departments can ensure quality construction. The minister added that by resolving complaints and addressing project-related issues, RERA is further strengthening the trust between buyers and developers.
Discussions were also held regarding the constitution of a Building Safety Council, which will further enhance the safety and quality of construction projects in the state.
The Himachal Pradesh government's efforts to promote planned development and ensure transparency in the real estate sector are expected to boost the housing market and provide residents with more reliable and eco-friendly housing options.