Patiala: The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has issued directions to ensure that innocent homebuyers are not penalised for environmental violations committed by real estate developers, while maintaining strict action against erring builders.The move follows multiple public representations and recommendations of a committee of senior officers constituted in March. The board said earlier restrictions on housing and commercial projects for violating pollution norms had caused hardship to buyers who invested their life savings without knowledge of such violations.In an order dated April 9, the PPCB noted that curbs such as restrictions on sale deeds in defaulting projects adversely affected genuine buyers seeking affordable housing.Under the revised directions, execution of sale deeds and release of electricity connections for individual buyers will now be allowed. The board clarified that action against defaulting developers will continue, including prosecution under environmental laws and denial of fresh approvals until compliance.PPCB said access to electricity is a basic necessity linked to the Right to Life under Article 21, and denying such services due to violations by developers caused undue hardship to buyers.Chairperson Reena Gupta said the decision aims to strike a balance between protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring strict environmental enforcement.BOXWhat changesSale deeds allowed for buyers in defaulting projectsElectricity connections to be released for individual unitsNo relief for developers; action and prosecution to continueFresh approvals to erring builders withheld till complianceMove aimed at protecting buyers’ rights without diluting enforcementMSID:: 130193310 413 |
