DDA warns architects, engineers & owners against lying about building plans

New Delhi: Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has issued a notice that warns architects, supervisors, structural engineers and property owners against submitting false information during building plan approvals. The action has come after multiple building collapses in the city.“As per the Unified Building Bye-Laws (UBBL), 2016, submitting false information, making misrepresentations in building plans, concealing material facts, or furnishing incorrect certificates will invite serious action. Besides blacklisting, debarment or any other action deemed appropriate, strict measures under applicable laws... will be taken against defaulters,” the notice said.Officials said several residential areas are under DDA’s jurisdiction, where the authority is auctioning plots and making apartments. For construction on such plots, owners need to get their building plans prepared by architects empanelled with MCD and submit them to DDA’s building department for approval.“Sanctions are granted based on the plans that are submitted. To prevent misrepresentation, including unauthorised changes in approved plans or construction beyond permissible limits, strict action will be taken against both, the property owners and the professionals. The objective is to minimise the risk of accidents in the future. Similar action will apply to structural engineers and supervisors found submitting false information,” an official said.“All registered professionals are advised to exercise due diligence and ensure that all plans, certificates, reports, undertakings and documents submitted to the authority are accurate, complete and compliant with statutory provisions,” DDA said.Officials clarified that most unauthorised colonies and urban villages do not fall under DDA’s building plan approval framework. When asked about illegal extensions or alterations in flats, officials said due procedure is followed whenever DDA gets complaints.