Punjab and Haryana High Court Halts Haryana's Controversial 'Stilt-Plus-Four Floors' Policy

Original: HC stays Haryana’s 'stilt-plus-four floors' policy, flags risk to public safety

Hindustan Times•Apr 3, 20264 min

In a Nutshell

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has temporarily suspended the Haryana government's 'stilt-plus-four floors' policy for residential plots, citing concerns over public safety and inadequate infrastructure in Gurugram. The court's decision follows a petition challenging the policy, which aimed to increase construction limits but raised risks for residents.

Key Points

01The High Court's interim order halts the 'stilt-plus-four floors' policy due to public safety concerns.
02The court criticized Haryana's government for prioritizing revenue over infrastructure and safety.
03Infrastructure issues in Gurugram, including narrow roads and inadequate sanitation, were highlighted.
04An expert committee had recommended conducting an 'Infrastructure Capacity Audit' before implementing the policy.
05The court will continue hearings on the matter, emphasizing the need for proper urban planning.

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Full Summary

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued an interim order to stay the Haryana government's 'stilt-plus-four floors' policy, which allowed increased construction on residential plots. The court expressed concerns that the policy jeopardizes public safety in Gurugram, where infrastructure is already strained. The court noted that the state had overlooked critical infrastructure shortages while pursuing revenue generation. It highlighted issues such as narrow internal roads in Sector 28, DLF Phase-I, Gurugram, which are only 3.9 to 4.8 metres wide, far below the required 10 to 12 metres. Furthermore, the court referenced a report from an expert committee that called for an 'Infrastructure Capacity Audit' before implementing such policies, stressing that the city's existing sewage and drainage systems are under significant stress. The court's decision aims to ensure that urban planning prioritizes the safety and well-being of residents, as the hearings on this matter continue.

Key Figures

12 to 15 feet

Width of internal roads in Gurugram

3.9 to 4.8 metres

Actual motorable space available on roads

10 to 12 metres

Prescribed width for internal roads

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Why It Matters

This decision could prevent further construction that exacerbates existing infrastructure issues in Gurugram, thereby protecting residents' safety.

Who is affected

Residents of Gurugram and potential homebuyers in the area.

What to know

Residents should stay informed about further developments regarding the policy and its impact on local infrastructure.

FAQ

It is a policy allowing the construction of residential buildings with four floors above a stilt level, which was introduced by the Haryana government.

The court cited public safety concerns and inadequate infrastructure in Gurugram as reasons for the stay.

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