In a bid to address the issue of non-installation of mandatory rooftop solar power plants, which are stipulated under the building bylaws, UT adviser Rajeev Verma on Wednesday directed the deputy commissioner-cum-estate officer to take strict action against the defaulters.

He directed that for the issuance of property resumption notices to the property owners who have failed to comply with the mandate to install solar power plants with a plot size of 500 square yards and above.

Furthermore, he directed the secretary, urban planning, UT, to expedite the process of further amending the building bylaws, reducing the plot size requirement for mandatory solar installations from 500 square yards to 250 square yards.

This was decided in the meeting of the state-level coordination committee constituted for PM Suryaghar-Muft Bijali Yozna, which was convened on Wednesday to oversee the implementation of the scheme.

The meeting, chaired by Verma, focused on enhancing the performance of the scheme within the Union Territory of Chandigarh.

The secretary, science, technology & renewable energy, informed about the various efforts taken by CREST such as advertisements, public bicycle shelters in Chandigarh, solar awareness camps, radio jingles, tele calling, digital promotion, etc.

During the meeting, the chairman expressed concern regarding the lower number of registrations under the scheme in Chandigarh.

He emphasized the need for improved collaboration between CREST, municipal corporation and Chandigarh electricity department. The goal is to intensify awareness efforts and ensure that comprehensive information about the scheme reaches the general public effectively.

The adviser to the administrator emphasized to become No.1 among all the UTs. The deputy commissioner highlighted that there are various incentives available for municipal corporations, resident welfare associations (RWAs), and discoms to promote the scheme.
The adviser directed the departments, including municipal corporation, to launch an intensive education and communication (IEC) campaign. This campaign aims to boost awareness and drive greater participation in the scheme.

These measures are intended to accelerate the adoption of solar power and enhance the overall success of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in the region, officials said.