Bhubaneswar, Sep 8: In a decisive move to tackle unauthorized construction activities, the Odisha Housing and Urban Development Department has issued a formal directive aimed at enforcing stricter compliance with building regulations.

The notification comes in response to a recent Supreme Court judgment that emphasised the need for stringent action against illegal constructions across the country.

According to the department’s circular, no construction activity will be permitted without prior approval of the building plan. Builders and developers are now required to display approved construction plans at the site, ensuring transparency and accountability during the building process.

The directive also makes it mandatory to obtain an Occupancy Certificate (OC) before granting possession of any residential or commercial property. This aligns with the Supreme Court’s stance that utilities such as electricity, water, and sewerage connections should only be provided after the issuance of a valid OC.

Officials have clarified that construction without sanctioned plans will be halted immediately, and any deviation from approved layouts may attract legal action.

The move is expected to bring greater discipline to urban development and protect buyers from investing in unauthorized properties.