Jaipur: Jaipur Development Authority has resumed receiving building plan applications after a nearly three-month halt, but uncertainty over a revised fire NOC process continues to trouble empanelled architects and applicants.The disruption began after empanelled architects stopped forwarding clients’ building plan applications, citing confusion over a July 10 order issued by Ankur Dadheech. The order introduced a two-stage approval system under which JDA will first issue an “approval in principle” for building plans. Applicants will then have to obtain a Fire NOC from Jaipur Municipal Corporation before JDA gives the final sanction.The revised process is not yet backed by clear standard operating procedures. Even so, empanelled architects have started submitting applications again, hoping the procedure will become clearer as files move through the system.“The order is confusing and will unnecessarily complicate building plan approvals. The only thing certain is that the process will take longer. We have forwarded a few applications, but none has reached the stage where JDA grants the ‘in-principle’ approval to be sent to JMC’s fire wing,” said Lokesh Garg, an empanelled architect.Architects said fire clearances from another civic body should not become their responsibility, as their role is limited to preparing plans and securing JDA approval.“This is not our job. We may get clarity once JDA starts issuing interim approvals for pending applications. We may then ask clients to obtain the fire NOC directly from JMC,” said architect Mayank Sharma.The Urban Development and Housing department has empanelled around 80 architects across Rajasthan, including nearly 60 in Jaipur. They are authorised to prepare plans for buildings up to 15 metre high on plots measuring up to 2,500 sqm. Officials estimate that more than 90% of buildings in Jaipur fall under this category.A JDA official said the revised procedure follows the state’s fire safety law notified on June 16.“JMC’s fire wing will first examine compliance with fire safety provisions. JDA will then scrutinise the plans against building bylaws and issue the final sanction,” the official said.
