The Kashmir Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Valley’s leading trade body, also expressed serious concern regarding inadequate public consultation process for proposed amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Unified Building Byelaws (UBBL) 2021 by HUDD.“The notification’s dissemination has been notably insufficient. The lack of direct communication with professional bodies and trade associations has further limited public awareness. This is particularly concerning for rural and semi-urban communities who will be significantly affected by these changes but may remain unaware of them,” KCCI general secretary Faiz Ahmed Bakshi said.These amendments, he, said, will have far-reaching implications for a broad spectrum of stakeholders across J&K and each group whether it be business chambers, architectural and engineering firms, construction companies, property developers, municipal corporations, urban local bodies, residents’ welfare associations, individual homeowners, small business owners, environmental groups, and urban planning experts deserve an opportunity to review and provide informed feedback on regulations that will directly impact their work and lives.“We strongly urge that the consultation period should be extended by at least 90 days to allow for comprehensive stakeholder feedback. The accessibility of these amendments needs significant improvement. We would also recommend developing standard operating procedures for future building bye-law amendments, creating permanent stakeholder consultation committees, and establishing regular review and update mechanisms with public participation,” Bakshi said.He said given the significant impact UBBL amendments will have on urban development, public safety, and quality of life in J&K, a comprehensive consultation process is not merely a procedural requirement but a necessity for ensuring these regulations serve their intended purpose effectively.
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