Udupi: Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK has directed officials of the rural planning department to implement the government’s circular granting exemptions for single-site plan approvals, especially in areas with geographical constraints. She was speaking at a district-level review meeting on Saturday to address public grievances related to Form 9/11 and delayed layout approvals.
The DC noted that in coastal regions, road widening and development face unique challenges. To address these, the state government has permitted design exemptions, allowing competent authorities to approve plans that otherwise may not comply with standard norms—as long as the rules are followed.
Highlighting public frustration, she instructed officials to prioritise applications and not delay them unnecessarily. Applications for single-site plans and Form 9/11 must be addressed promptly, she said.
MLA V Sunil Kumar backed the DC, adding that the government considers regional geography when issuing exemptions. He reminded officials that a circular has already been issued for Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, and Kodagu districts, and it must be implemented without misinterpretation.
MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi acknowledged public concern about the urban planning authority’s perceived rigidity, urging officials to listen patiently and assist applicants.
Zilla Panchayat CEO Prateek Bayal further pointed out that poor beneficiaries under 94C and similar schemes face hurdles in getting approvals. He emphasised that the existing circular clearly defines allowable exemptions, and officials must adhere strictly to it while approving plans.