Scrap unauthorized TDR files, decide on the rest

An inquiry has been underway for three years on suspicion of scam in the TDR cases by the municipal corporation. There are irregularities in very few cases, however, as these files are under enquiry. This has hampered the development and the revenue collection of the corporation.

In 2017, during the tenure of the then commissioner Om Prakash Bakoria, it came to light that there was a fraud in the TDR case. Three officials were suspended in the case. Later, former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered an inquiry into the matter after the issue was raised in the question and answer session in the assembly. The then joint director of town planning investigated 234 cases and categorized them as extreme, medium, severe and minor cases. As a result, all the files were under enquiry. However, if a decision is made following rules and regulations on the files, it will pave the way for the municipal corporation to get revenue and also felicitate the construction of TDR holders.

Everyone is at a loss

TDR is, in general, functions as one of the elements to achieve an overarching urban development. TDR is taken in lieu of space. A lack of decision-making has hampered the city''s development. Not only builders but also ordinary citizens are involved in these agreements. The more building permits, the more revenue the corporation will get. Therefore, files that are authorized must be approved. The inquiry has been stalled for three years, causing loss to everyone.

Narendra Singh Jabinda, president, Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (CREDAI)

Set aside files that seem suspicious

Action should be taken against the TDRs which were issued incorrectly. The former chief minister had directed the inquiry committee to approve the authorized cases. The inquiry committee gave remarks in all the cases. However, the corporation must set aside suspicious files. Take an affidavit regarding the TDR. If fraud is proven, cancel the TDR.

Nitin Bagadiya, vice president, CREDAI

Official files will be approved

The TDR cases are under investigation for three to four years. There is a demand for approval of authorized files. Commenting on the issue, municipal commissioner Astik Kumar Pandey said that from the 234 cases, those files which are authorized must be approved. Approval is being given as per the feedback received from the deputy director office. Decision regarding some files has been made. Information about this should be obtained from the town planning department.

File cases against fraudsters

The number of suspicious TRD files can be counted on the finger. Case must be filed against them. TDR is not limited to builders. TDR will also reduce house cost. There is no need to stop the rest of the files. A joint hearing of the municipal commissioner, office bearers of Credai, and secretary of urban development will be held soon, said MLA Sanjay Shirsat.