Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 17: While raising questions over the consultation process, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today sought more time to review the proposed amendments to the J&K Unified Building Byelaws (UBBL) 2021.
KCCI, in a statement issued here, called upon Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to extend the deadline for submitting responses, citing concerns over inadequate public consultation and stakeholder engagement.
“The Executive Committee members expressed serious concern about the issue. It is astonishing to note that the public notice regarding the amendments neither bore any number nor the date of issue, raising questions,” the trade body stated.
It stressed that the current deadline of January 18, 2025, set by the Housing & Urban Development Department, provides insufficient time for a comprehensive review of these complex technical regulations.
Given the “far-reaching implications” of these amendments on urban development, construction practices, and public safety across the Union Territory, KCCI emphasized the critical need for extensive stakeholder consultation and thorough technical review.
The Chamber noted serious concerns regarding the current consultation process.
“The lack of widespread publication in local newspapers and insufficient communication with professional bodies has left many stakeholders, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, unaware of these important changes,” it added.
KCCI also noted that the “limited” awareness is particularly concerning as the amendments will “fundamentally alter building regulations and impact community development for years to come.”
It stated that the consultation process has critical gaps that need immediate attention.
“The proposed amendments will affect many stakeholders, including architectural firms, construction companies, property developers, municipal corporations, urban local bodies, residents’ welfare associations, individual homeowners, small business owners, environmental groups, and urban planning experts,” the Chamber said.
To ensure meaningful participation, KCCI has recommended extending the consultation period by 90 days and the mandatory publication of amendments in leading newspapers across both regions.
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