Mhada will now give NOC for redevelopment in 90 days

Officials say move will reduce corruption and speed up pending projects

To speed up the revamp of Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (Mhada) colonies, the housing body has now made it mandatory for its officials to issue its no objection certificates (NOCs) or offer letters within 90 days or face action.

Officials found guilty of delaying action may face punishment under the Right to Service Act (HT file)

According to the chairman of Mhada’s Mumbai board, Madhu Chavan, this move will increase efficiency and reduce corruption in the housing body.

“Currently many officers are sitting on these files for days and there was no accountability. Many officials used to send files back on frivolous grounds due to vested interests,” said Chavan. “We have ensured a deadline where the official has to pass the proposal within the specified days. If he does not, he should state valid reason for his delay.”

Officials found guilty of delaying action may face punishment under the Right to Service Act. Nayan Shah, president of Maharashtra Chambers of Housing Industry (MCHI-CREDAI), said the offer letter from Mhada is key.

“This offer letter determines our floor space index (FSI) and hence is a vital document. If we get it faster, the whole project can proceed in fast pace and we will be able to save considerable cost,” said Shah.