Crackdown on Unauthorised Layouts in Chittoor District

Tirupati: Chittoor district has seen a significant rise in unauthorised layouts in recent years, prompting the government to take decisive action. The proliferation of these illegal ventures has raised concerns about unplanned urban development and potential fraud affecting unsuspecting buyers.

Recent surveys reveal that the Chittoor Urban Development Authority (CHUDA) jurisdiction, covering 23 mandals, has identified around 632 illegal layouts. The highest concentrations are in Kanipakam, Chittoor city, Bangarupalem, Thavanampalle, and Piler in Annamayya district.

Similarly, the Palamaner-Kuppam-Madanapalle Urban Development Authority area, covering 18 mandals in Chittoor and Annamayya districts, identified approximately 16 unauthorised layouts, with the total potentially reaching 100.

Urban development authorities have launched a crackdown on these illegal layouts. "Unscrupulous developers have been creating plots on agricultural lands, falsely promising permissions and amenities. We are taking stringent measures against unauthorised layouts while minimising public inconvenience. Our priority is to protect citizens from fraud and ensure planned urban development," stated a senior Urban Development Department official.

Authorities are issuing notices to layout owners and warning potential buyers about the risks of purchasing plots in unauthorised layouts. "We strongly advise against buying plots in unauthorised ventures. Even if plans are submitted to the panchayat, municipality, or corporation for construction, approvals will not be granted, and in some cases, even electricity connections may be denied," the official added.

For those who have already purchased plots in illegal layouts, the situation remains uncertain. They may need to wait for the government to announce a Land Regularisation Scheme (LRS) to potentially regularise their properties, which would involve paying government-set fees and obtaining approval if the layouts meet planning requirements.

Urban development authorities emphasise that the layout owner is responsible for providing main and internal roads, drainage systems, and other facilities. Only when these are in place will the authorities forward proposals to the Director of Town and Country Planning for approval. The public is urged to exercise caution and verify all necessary approvals before making any purchases.