MB Rajesh| Photo: Mathrubhumi
Thiruvananthapuram: Local self-government minister MB Rajesh on Thursday announced the government's decision to revise the building permit fee. However, the new rate is not yet finalised, he said.
Rajesh, at the press meet, said the government in the past had not timely revised the permit fee. Better services and swift approval of applications will be ensured, the minister added.
"Permits for small-scale constructions up to 300 sq metre, including houses, in corporations and municipalities will be granted immediately. The permit will be issued on self-attested applications. From April 1 onwards, there will be no inspection to grant a permit to small buildings," said MB Rajesh.
In the meantime, the state government approved an increase of 5% in property taxes starting on April 1. The revised rates will be applicable to buildings constructed from next year onwards. However, the government has also relaxed certain norms to ease pressure on commoners. Property tax is no longer required for buildings up to 60 square meters, excluding flats.
At the same time, officials will conduct regular inspections to identify illegal constructions, tax defaults and other illegal practices.
"The Local Self Government offices will be 'rated' based on their performance. The feedback from the public over the performance will be taken into consideration," said minister MB Rajesh.
The minister added that a commission, encompassing international experts, will be constituted to formulate an urban development policy in the state.
He also pointed out the need to handle liquid waste disposal. The government has taken the matter seriously after finding the presence of E. coli bacteria in water bodies. As of now, we lack basic amenities to treat liquid waste. The state government has taken measures to overcome this issue. Around 30 liquid waste treatment plants are being constructed. The construction of 10 plants will be completed by May 31, 2023," he said. He added that an enforcement squad will be constituted to take strict against those perpetrators behind illegal waste disposals.