Punjab RERA Urges National-Level Real Estate Planning, Mandatory Project Insurance to Protect Homebuyers
The Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) has strongly advocated for urgent regional and national-level strategic planning in real estate development, highlighting a serious “lack of vision” among licensing authorities. Emphasising the need for a structured and future-ready approach, RERA stated that fragmented approvals and short-term planning are harming sustainable urban growth and increasing risks for home buyers.
Citing the rapid and unplanned development around Chandigarh—especially Zirakpur—as a warning sign, RERA observed that unchecked high-rise construction along highways has resulted in permanent traffic congestion. The authority questioned how approvals were granted without considering long-term infrastructure capacity, traffic flow, and environmental impact, calling it a failure of strategic foresight.
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RERA clarified that true master planning must go beyond city or district layouts. Instead, it should operate at the level of geological regions, states, and even the nation. Such planning must integrate topography, zoning, population projections, sustainability, and environmental viability. The authority also flagged seismic risks, noting that parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh fall in highly earthquake-prone zones, making scientific planning non-negotiable.
To improve governance and accountability, RERA recommended a technology-driven single-window clearance system supported by API-based coordination among departments. It also called for complete digitisation of land records with guaranteed titles, suggesting that approved project plans be overlaid with revenue maps and satellite imagery to eliminate land identity disputes.
Addressing the root cause of promoter-allottee conflicts, RERA proposed mandatory insurance for real estate projects. This step, the authority said, would safeguard buyers against delays, ensure project completion, and significantly reduce litigation. Calling strategic planning the most critical reform, RERA directed that its recommendations be circulated among all stakeholders for serious introspection and action.
