Delay in land use charge policy review slows progress on urban reforms in J&K

Srinagar, May 14: The review of Jammu and Kashmir’s land use charge policy, aimed at introducing transparency and ease in the process of land use change, continues to remain incomplete, holding back essential reforms needed to support structured urban growth in the region.

In December 2021, the Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD) notified a policy through SO 439, outlining the mechanism for levying charges on the use of land as permitted under the Master Plan or Zonal Development Plan.

The policy detailed the assessment process, rate structures, exemptions, and utilisation of collected charges. However, its implementation exposed several operational flaws, particularly in the formula used to compute charges, which triggered concerns from citizens, developers, and government officials alike.

Responding to the growing demand for revisions, the HUDD initiated a formal review process in December 2024, with the goal of incorporating feedback and modifying the policy to address practical challenges. The exercise brought together senior officials from urban local bodies and planning authorities across Jammu and Srinagar, who were expected to recommend a more rationalised and transparent system aligned with current development needs.

Officials involved in the review have emphasised the importance of recalibrating charges, suggesting that Change of Land Use (CLU) be levied at 50 per cent of the prevailing circle rate and applied strictly to land value, excluding built structures. "There is also a growing consensus that the authority to grant CLU permissions should rest with municipal corporations, particularly in urban areas like Srinagar, to ensure faster and more accountable decision-making."

Other key proposals under consideration include increasing the permissible Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to enable vertical housing solutions, setting clearer guidelines for road widths in small housing colonies, and updating the zoning provisions within the Master Plan to boost commercial and tourism-related infrastructure.

A senior HUUD official said, "The Chief Minister recently reviewed the status of ongoing efforts to simplify and digitise the CLU process. Hopefully soon revised notification regarding Land use Charges will be issued which will be in line to meet the points raised by the public." Despite these developments, the absence of finalised recommendations has led to a temporary policy vacuum, affecting housing approvals and long-term planning strategies. Planners and stakeholders stress that updated land use guidelines are critical not only for ensuring compliance with urban norms but also for unlocking growth potential in key sectors.