A residents’ association in Rasulgarh has lodged serious complaints against a real estate developer, alleging illegal occupation of common areas, structural neglect, and safety lapses in their apartment complex. The grievances have been formally submitted to the Chief Minister, the Housing and Urban Development Minister, and the Odisha Real Estate Regulatory Authority (ORERA), with a demand for immediate intervention.
According to the association, the builder has encroached upon the designated parking spaces and converted them into a commercial office and trust. This, they claim, has left 52 flat owners struggling with inadequate parking facilities. The association stated that despite repeated representations, the builder continues to use the main gate for commercial purposes, keeping it open around the clock. Residents argue that this unrestricted access exposes them to security risks.
Another major concern raised is the incomplete construction of the compound wall around the project. Residents believe the absence of a boundary wall compromises both safety and privacy. In addition, issues of poor water drainage were highlighted. During heavy rains, water reportedly stagnates in the basement, creating risks of structural weakening. The association warned that this negligence could endanger the lives of residents if not rectified.
The apartment, now four years old, has not seen corrective measures from the developer despite several complaints. Residents allege that the builder has failed to address defects and continues to delay the formal handover of common areas. “We have registered our association under the Apartment Act. However, the builder is refusing to hand over facilities, which is a violation of the law,” said association member Pabitra Kumar Parida.
Following receipt of the grievance, Satish Chandra Singh, Joint Secretary of the Odisha Urban Housing Mission (OUHM), directed the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and ORERA to investigate the matter and initiate appropriate action.
As per the Odisha Apartment (Ownership and Management) Act, 2023, all common areas and facilities must be transferred to allottees after project completion. The residents claim that the builder’s actions are in direct violation of these provisions.
The complaint has once again highlighted persistent disputes between homebuyers and developers in the state, particularly concerning the misuse of common facilities and delays in formal handovers. Regulatory bodies such as ORERA are expected to play a more active role in enforcing compliance to safeguard residents’ rights.
For now, the Rasulgarh residents await an official inquiry, hoping their collective appeal will push authorities to enforce accountability and ensure safety measures are put in place.
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