As a step towards formulation of a unified development and building code, a stakeholder consultation workshop was conducted on Tuesday by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority in collaboration with the consultant firm Ernst & Young.

The foundation for a draft code was laid by the EY, which has conducted a comprehensive review comparing the policies being implemented in Telangana with the best national and international practices, a statement from HMDA informed.

The workshop was attended by various governmental and non-governmental representatives, and presided over by HMDA Commissioner Sarfaraz Ahmed.

Mr. Ahmed highlighted the importance of constructive participation towards the formulation of the unified code, which would prioritise ‘sustainability & ease of doing business’ for the first time in the country. He said inputs from various departments, urban planners, industrial partners, and development forums will help simplify the new code, and make it transparent and flexible.

GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan emphasised on the improved coordination towards simplifying the regulations, while Commissioner, Hyderabad Disaster Response & Asset Protection Agency, A.V. Ranganath, drew attention to the need for special provisions for structures beside drains and water bodies.

Private stakeholders such as CREDAI, NAREDCO, ITPI, Institute of Architects, CII and others sought developer friendly regulations, doing away with the mandatory allocation of space for commercial and public utilities.

Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board, Commissioner & Director, Municipal Administration, power discom, Musi Riverfront Development Corporation, Panchayat Raj & Rural Development, and the Directorate of Town & Country Planning were represented at the workshop.