In Ahmedabad, new regulations have been introduced for Paying Guest (PG) accommodations. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has made it mandatory for PG operators to obtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from their housing societies and the police. This change follows a directive from the Gujarat High Court, which urged the AMC to formulate clear guidelines for PGs. The aim is to enhance safety and manage issues like noise and overcrowding, which have troubled many residents.
Many societies welcome the new rule, as they have faced challenges from unknown guests and noise disturbances for years. Bhumi Trivedi, a society chairperson in Ghodasar, expressed relief that they will now have a voice in the matter. This new policy aligns PGs with hostels and lodges, meaning they must adhere to strict regulations on fire safety and building usage.
Under the new rules, PG owners must apply for the necessary permissions within 30 days of operations starting. Additionally, PGs must now allocate parking space—20% for hostels and between 30% to 50% for lodges. Previously, the AMC had limited control over PG operations. With these new guidelines, the AMC can now take serious actions, including shutting down non-compliant PGs.
The rise of PGs in residential areas has led to disputes among homeowners. Many residents have complained about noise and security issues, which have sometimes escalated to police complaints. The new regulations are expected to provide a clearer framework for PG operations and reduce grievances from local residents.
The regulations classify PG accommodations under hostels, lodging, and boarding facilities. Compliance with parking and fire safety regulations is now required. This move is seen as a significant step towards better governance of residential areas, ensuring that PGs do not disrupt community life.
Overall, these new rules are designed to improve living conditions in Ahmedabad’s residential societies. By regulating PG accommodations, the AMC hopes to create a safer and more harmonious living environment for all residents. The local community’s response has been largely positive, as many are eager to see improvements in their neighborhoods. With the new regulations set in place, residents are hopeful for a smoother coexistence with PG accommodations in their areas.