Telangana Government Launches ‘BuildNow’ to Revolutionize Building Approvals Process
The Telangana government has launched a pioneering unified online building and layout approval system, ‘BuildNow’, designed to drastically reduce the approval processing time from several weeks to just minutes. The new system was introduced by D. Sridhar Babu, the Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, and Industry, on Tuesday.
Under the previous system, TG bPASS, the scrutiny process for building applications could take anywhere from 2 to 30 days. With ‘BuildNow’, this time frame is reduced to under 5 minutes, even for complex multi-story buildings. For instance, a building comprising three towers, each with 40 floors, will take less than two minutes for approval. The system is set to streamline the approval process, providing faster, more efficient services to citizens.
Minister Sridhar Babu emphasized that this initiative is part of the government’s focus on urban development, with 60% of the state’s population residing in urban areas. He described the launch as a revolutionary step towards modern, citizen-centric governance, marking Telangana as the first state in the country to introduce such a rapid drawing scrutiny system.
One of the standout features of ‘BuildNow’ is its ability to process building plans using advanced technologies. It employs a lightning-fast scrutiny engine that can handle even the most intricate multi-tower buildings in under 5 minutes. The new system is also powered by cutting-edge technologies like AI, blockchain, and augmented reality, which together create a seamless and transparent experience for citizens.
The system includes a unified single-window interface, eliminating the need for citizens to visit multiple departments or navigate various portals. Citizens can access all necessary functions — from submission to fee payments — in one location, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Augmented reality (AR) technology allows users to visualize their buildings before construction begins, providing an immersive, interactive experience that helps them better understand their projects.
Another key feature of ‘BuildNow’ is its use of blockchain technology to ensure verifiable tracking of all applications and approvals. This increases transparency, fosters trust, and ensures accountability in the entire approval process.
Additionally, the system integrates an AI-powered virtual assistant that offers real-time guidance to users. The assistant helps navigate the application process, answers queries, and provides personalized support, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and empowered to complete their applications with confidence.
‘BuildNow’ represents a significant leap forward in building regulations, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and ease of use. It’s a major step toward making urban planning and development in Telangana more transparent, streamlined, and citizen-friendly.
