S+4 structures: 18 blacklisted architects face Rs 2 lakh penalty

The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has imposed a penalty of Rs 2 lakh per violation on architects who have allegedly issued occupation certificates (OCs) ‘illegally’ for stilt-plus-four (S 4) properties.

The ‘blacklisted’ architects, who claim to have valid reasons for issuing these certificates will be given a hearing with the Senior Town Planner (STP).

An order issued by DTCP Director Amit Khatri pointed out that the state government had banned the construction of four floors and stilt on residential plots.

Consequently, no new building plan or OC for such structures could be approved under the composition policy. However, some architects were found violating the rule by granting OCs through the self-certification process for unauthorised constructions.

In view of the violation, 18 architects were blacklisted, and their registration was recommended for revocation by the Council of Architecture. One of the architects appealed, claiming they had issued only one OC without a chance to defend themselves. In response, DTCP decided that the architects should be granted a hearing to assess whether the violations could be compounded or if blacklisting should continue.

Khatri’s order emphasised that, considering natural justice, the violations may be compounded upon a penalty of Rs 2 lakh per offense. Architects can submit requests to the STP, who will review the circumstances and decide whether to compound the offence.

“We have reports of violations. However, we will be giving them a fair chance to put across their point and only then will take any further action. A review of all stilt-plus-four constructions is being done,” said the Gurugram DTP.

May request review hearing

• The Haryana Government has banned the construction of structures with four floors and stilt on residential plots.
• Consequently, no new building plan or occupation certificate (OC) can be approved for stilt-plus-four structures.
• However, some architects were found granting OCs through the self-certification process for unauthorised constructions.
• In view of the violation, 18 architects were blacklisted. However, those with valid reasons for issuing certificates may submit review requests to senior town planner.