Commissioner R.V. Karnan of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) recently announced a comprehensive protocol for the sealing of unauthorized structures throughout the city. This new standard operating procedure (SOP) aims to enforce stricter actions against illegal constructions, ensuring compliance with local regulations. According to the SOP, only a superior authority can reverse the sealing of a property. For example, if a Deputy Commissioner seals a structure, only the Zonal Commissioner has the power to unseal it. Likewise, the GHMC Commissioner is the only official who can lift a seal put in place by a Zonal Commissioner.
The circular outlines two principal scenarios under the Telangana Building Permission Approval and Self-Certification System (TG-bPASS) Act of 2020 that warrant the sealing of properties: the provision of false information or misrepresentation to acquire building permissions, and any construction carried out without proper authorization or in violation of approved plans. The directive also references the Supreme Court’s December 2024 guidelines targeting unauthorized constructions, as well as recent directions from the Telangana High Court, which mandate the sealing of additional floors if construction continues despite the issuance of show-cause notices.
Underlining the GHMC Commissioner’s authority within the GHMC Act of 1955, the SOP stipulates that copies of any show-cause notice must be disseminated to multiple stakeholders, including the District Collector, the chief of the Special Task Force, the Zonal Commissioner or designated GHMC officer, and must be visibly posted on the affected structure. If construction does not cease immediately following notice, the property must be sealed without delay. Owners or occupants will receive a three-day grace period before the sealing process commences.
In terms of physical sealing measures, a red ribbon must encircle the entire construction, secured with a paper tag signed by the executing officer and witness (“Panchoos”). Each knot securing the ribbon should also bear an official wax seal. All access points-including staircases, elevators, and ramps-must be sealed, ideally using plywood or weather-resistant boards. If lock access is feasible, locks should be covered with cloth and sealed using the office seal with wax.
A detailed report documenting the sealing process must be compiled, listing the names of participating police and civil personnel and signed by two witnesses. This report is to be submitted to the Commissioner and displayed on the GHMC’s digital portal. Additionally, the works must be documented through photographs and videos. The electricity and water departments will be informed to disconnect services to the sealed property. Notification must also be made to the Station House Officer and Sub-Registrar if there are legal disputes concerning the property.
This streamlined approach aims not only to enforce existing regulations but also to protect the integrity of Hyderabad’s urban landscape. The GHMC’s commitment to a methodical and transparent sealing process demonstrates a proactive stance against unauthorized construction, fostering a culture of accountability and adherence to planning laws.
As the GHMC implements these new measures, stakeholders and property owners alike will need to remain vigilant, ensuring compliance to avoid the significant ramifications of illegal construction activities.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/ghmc-commissioner-issues-detailed-sop-for-sealing-of-unauthorised-premises/article69701705.ece
Category : Hyderabad
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Publish Date: 2025-06-17 00:27:00
