Builders Raise Concerns Over Chennai Corporation’s Vague Construction Guidelines

Builders in the city are up in arms against the new guidelines in construction issued by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), saying the directives were ambiguous, unclear, and expensive to follow.

The standards, designed to promote clean and hygienic construction practices, require that all sites be barricaded with metal sheets or high-density fabric to ensure that dust and debris are not allowed to contaminate the environment. Builders, however, argue that the instructions lack clarity and feasibility.

“The materials they mention aren’t even available in Chennai,” said one developer, questioning the practicality of the directive. “We’ve already covered most of our sites with green nets since workers stay inside the buildings. These new rules only add confusion.”

Many builders say they were caught off guard by the sudden imposition of these requirements. “The communication was vague. At a time when the construction sector is already struggling, these rules could lead to more setbacks, especially if we start getting fined for non-compliance,” another builder said.

The GCC, on its part, maintains that the rules are part of a larger effort to reduce dust pollution and maintain public hygiene around construction sites. An official stated that the corporation had held workshops with builders and contractors before issuing the guidelines. “Our engineers will monitor the sites. If any builder fails to comply, they will be fined,” the official added.

According to the guidelines, all sites must be barricaded with either tin sheets or high-density fabric, matching the height of the construction. Dumping waste in public areas is strictly forbidden. Fines for defaulters are between ₹10,000 and ₹5 lakh, based on the scope of the project.

With confusion persisting, most builders are yet to start enforcing the new provisions, especially at high-rise projects. Industry voices warn that without clearer instructions and more practical solutions, the guidelines may further burden an already struggling sector.