The Builders' Association of India (BAI) has urged the newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu government to introduce sweeping reforms in the construction and infrastructure sector. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on May 12, the association proposed the creation of a separate ministry for construction and faster project approvals through a unified single-window clearance system.
Key Demands for Transparency and Efficiency
BAI congratulated the new government and expressed confidence that the administration would usher in progressive governance, transparency, industrial growth, and accelerated infrastructure development across the state. The association called for greater transparency in government tender processes and sought issuance of tenders only after financial sanction and fund allocation.
Skill Development and Worker Welfare
The association pressed for district-level skill development centres for men and women, internship opportunities for civil engineering students through the Public Works Department (PWD) and highways departments, and stronger welfare measures for construction workers.
Regulatory Authority for Construction Materials
Among its major demands, BAI proposed setting up a regulatory authority for construction materials to ensure price stability, quality, consistency, and uninterrupted supply. The association noted that volatile material costs and shortages often result in project delays and contractor losses.
Single-Window Clearance and Faster Approvals
The builders' body sought faster approvals from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP), Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), and other statutory authorities through an integrated all-department single-window clearance mechanism.
Simplifying RERA and Reducing Compliance Burden
Raising concerns over regulatory hurdles, BAI called for simplification of RERA compliance procedures, rationalisation of penalties, reduction in EB infrastructure charges and registration costs, and easing of escrow and multiple bank account compliance norms. It also flagged delays caused by repeated document submissions, portal-related issues, and frequent procedural changes affecting project execution.
Streamlining Approvals and Uniform Rules
The association further urged the government to streamline project extension approvals, ensure uniform interpretation of rules across departments, and expedite approvals related to sewage, water supply, and utility infrastructure.
BAI state chairman N Ramalingam assured the government of the industry's cooperation in developmental initiatives.
