Construction projects approved only if headed by qualified persons

Under a new regulation introduced by the Construction Industry Development Authority ( CIDA), all local authorities have been directed not to grant approvals for new construction projects, unless qualified persons are employed to implement the project.

The new law comes in view of the increasing number of new constructions collapsing even before completion. The CIDA said the Act will provide for many provisions including safety for the development of the construction industry.

The new regulation as per gazette notification of Feb. 5, 2018, under CIDA Act No.33 of 2014, requires all persons not registered with a Board of Registration related to the construction industry, under Act of Parliament, such as Engineers, Architects, Quantity Surveyors and Environmental and Public Health Engineers who are working on construction projects, be registered with CIDA.

A Credential Committee comprising 15 CIDA members, will examine the professional and vocational disciplines of potential members, including their experience within the industry, and recommend eligibility for registration.

Further, CIDA will maintain records on the identified work in progress, making it mandatory that the standards of design and documentation under the CIDA regulations are maintained.

The CIDA will entertain complaints against its members and any complaint against members of registered bodies or any Board of Registration relating to construction, which will be brought to the notice of the affiliated body they belong to, for action.

The Registration fee will range from Rs 6,000 to Rs 500,000, plus the value added tax, according to the grading of contractors.

Accordingly, all those who wish to register themselves as being qualified, shall apply to become a member of the CIDA.

The Register of qualified persons will be available for the public's view, free of charge, at the CIDA office.