HC Halts Haryana’s Stilt-Plus-Four Policy Over Safety Concerns
Court says revenue cannot come at the cost of citizens’ safety in Gurugram.
Policy stayed after PIL highlights crumbling infrastructure and narrow roads.
By Our Legal Correspondent
New Delhi: April 03, 2026:
The Punjab and Haryana High Court have stayed the Haryana government’s “stilt-plus-four floors” policy, which allowed construction of four-storey residential buildings with stilt parking. The court observed that the state had put public safety at risk merely to earn more revenue, while ignoring the city’s fragile infrastructure. The ruling has sparked debate across Haryana, especially in Gurugram, where rapid urbanization has already strained civic amenities.
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What the Court Said
- Revenue vs Safety: The bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry stated, “It appears that the state of Haryana merely to earn more revenue has put the safety and security of members of general public at stake.”
- Infrastructure Audit Ignored: The court criticized the government for failing to conduct an “infrastructure capacity audit” before implementing the policy.
- Narrow Roads: A local commission found that internal roads in Gurugram were far narrower than prescribed norms—only 3.9 to 4.8 meters wide against the required 10–12 meters.
- Expert Committee Report: The court noted that an expert committee had warned that increasing floors without infrastructure backup would burden sewage, drainage, traffic, and water systems.
Legal Context
- Town and Country Planning Notification (July 2, 2024): Allowed stilt-plus-four floors, raising the earlier cap of stilt-plus-three.
- Public Interest Litigations (PILs): Multiple petitions challenged the policy, citing safety risks and lack of planning.
- Court’s Interim Stay: The stay will remain until April 8, 2026, when further hearings are scheduled.
Examples & Case Studies
- DLF Phase-I Roads: Residents highlighted how narrow lanes already struggle with traffic. Adding more floors would worsen congestion and emergency access.
- Flooding in Gurugram: The city frequently faces waterlogging. More construction without drainage upgrades could intensify flooding.
Historical & Comparative Context
- Earlier Cap: Haryana earlier allowed stilt-plus-three floors. The jump to four was seen as a revenue-driven move.
- Comparisons: Other Indian states like Delhi have faced similar debates, balancing housing demand with infrastructure capacity. Globally, cities often require strict audits before increasing building density.
Implications
- For Families: Residents fear overcrowding, traffic jams, and reduced safety in emergencies.
- For Real Estate: Builders face uncertainty, with projects stalled until the court’s final decision.
- For Governance: The ruling underscores the need for infrastructure audits before policy changes.
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FAQ Section
1. What is the stilt-plus-four policy?
It allows construction of four floors above stilt parking on residential plots.
2. Why did the court halt it?
Because the state prioritized revenue over public safety and ignored infrastructure audits.
3. Does this mean all projects stop?
Yes, until the next hearing, the policy’s operation is stayed.
4. What were the main concerns?
Narrow roads, sewage overload, flooding, and traffic congestion.
5. Is exclusion of heirs relevant here?
No, this case is about urban planning, not succession law.
6. When is the next hearing?
April 8, 2026.
Conclusion
The High Court’s stay on Haryana’s stilt-plus-four policy is a reminder that urban planning must prioritize safety and infrastructure over revenue. Gurugram’s fragile civic systems cannot sustain unchecked vertical growth. The final verdict will shape Haryana’s housing future, but for now, the message is clear: public safety comes first.
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