SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed serious concerns regarding the public consultation process for the recently proposed amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Unified Building Byelaws (UBBL) 2021, which were notified by the Housing & Urban Development Department.
In a statement issued here, the KCCI highlighted significant shortcomings in the current consultation process, particularly criticizing the tight deadline of January 18, 2025, which they believe does not allow sufficient time for meaningful public engagement. The Chamber emphasized that the amendments involve complex building regulations that require detailed technical scrutiny from various professionals.
The KCCI pointed out that while the proposed amendments are available on the department’s website, there has been a lack of effective dissemination to the public. Notably, the Chamber criticized the absence of notices in local newspapers, both in English and vernacular languages, which has severely limited outreach. Furthermore, the lack of direct communication with professional bodies and trade associations has left many affected individuals, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, unaware of these significant changes.
These amendments, according to KCCI, will have extensive ramifications for a wide range of stakeholders, including business chambers, architectural and engineering firms, construction companies, property developers, municipal corporations, urban local bodies, residents’ welfare associations, individual homeowners, small business owners, environmental groups, and urban planning experts. They asserted that all stakeholders deserve the opportunity to review the regulations and offer informed feedback.
To address these highlighted concerns, the KCCI has proposed several immediate measures. They have called for an extension of the consultation period by at least 90 days to facilitate comprehensive feedback from all stakeholders. This extension should coincide with mandatory publications in major newspapers across the region, local language radio announcements, and official notifications through district administrations.
Additionally, the KCCI stressed the need for improved accessibility to the amendments and urged the establishment of standard operating procedures for future building bye-law amendments. They recommended the creation of permanent stakeholder consultation committees and regular mechanisms for review and updates involving public participation. A dedicated digital platform for ongoing engagement with stakeholders was also suggested to enhance communication.
Given the significant impact of these UBBL amendments on urban development, public safety, and overall quality of life within the Union Territory, the KCCI emphasized that a comprehensive consultation process is essential. The Chamber has urged immediate intervention to ensure a more inclusive and thorough process, which they believe will lead to better final regulations and strengthen public trust in governance.