‘Need reforms in construction infra sector’

Chennai: Builders' Association of India (BAI) has urged the newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu govt to introduce sweeping reforms in the construction and infrastructure sector, including the creation of a separate ministry for construction and faster project approvals through a unified single-window clearance system.In a letter addressed to chief minister Joseph Vijay on May 12, BAI congratulated the new govt and expressed confidence that the administration would usher in "progressive governance, transparency, industrial growth and accelerated infrastructure development" across the state. Highlighting the concerns of the construction industry, the association called for greater transparency in govt tender processes and sought issuance of tenders only after financial sanction and fund allocation. It also pressed for district-level skill development centres for men and women, internship opportunities for civil engineering students through PWD and highways departments, and stronger welfare measures for construction workers. Among its major demands, the association proposed setting up a regulatory authority for construction materials to ensure price stability, quality, consistency and uninterrupted supply, stating that volatile material costs and shortages often result in project delays and contractor losses.The builders' body also sought faster approvals from CMDA, DTCP, RERA and other statutory authorities through an integrated all-department single-window clearance mechanism.Raising concerns over regulatory hurdles, BAI called for simplification of RERA compliance procedures, rationalisation of penalties, reduction in EB infrastructure charges and registration costs, and easing of escrow and multiple bank account compliance norms. It also flagged delays caused by repeated document submissions, portal-related issues and frequent procedural changes affecting project execution.The association further urged the govt to streamline project extension approvals, ensure uniform interpretation of rules across departments and expedite approvals related to sewage, water supply and utility infrastructure.BAI state chairman N Ramalingam, assured the govt of the industry's cooperation in developmental initiative.