Overcharging and delays: Complaints about Ksmart licensees

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Ksmart software, introduced in Kerala in January 2024 to streamline building permits, has raised concerns due to misuse by some licensees. There are complaints that certain licensees—like building designers and architects—are overcharging and delaying necessary corrections in building permit applications.

Once the application is submitted through a licensee, the owner cannot switch to another licensee until the permit is granted. Some licensees exploit this situation, demanding higher fees to fix issues identified by officials or delaying the process altogether. If these issues are not resolved, owners face further delays, as the permits cannot be granted on time.

For buildings larger than 3,229 square feet or taller than 7 meters, local body officials review the plans and suggest corrections if needed. If the application is delayed or withdrawn due to non-cooperation by the licensee, the owner must hire a new licensee and start over, incurring additional fees and financial loss.

Ksmart imposes a 30-day limit for issuing permits, and the application fee is ₹4,000. Addressing the situation, Kowdiyar Harikumar, President of the All Kerala Building Designers Organisation, said, "Shortcomings by licensees cannot be tolerated. There should be a mechanism in K Smart to resolve these issues and help applicants."