Hyderabad Introduces AI-Powered Building Approval App
The Minister for IT and Industries, D Sridhar Babu, unveiled a new app called BuildNow on Tuesday. This advanced application aims to simplify the process of obtaining building and layout approvals in Telangana. The app, which will be operational from February 1, 2025, uses artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up the process and includes a chat support feature to assist users.
At the launch event held at the Secretariat, the Minister highlighted the app’s efficiency. BuildNow, developed by IIT graduates, will reduce approval times drastically. For example, the scrutiny process, which currently takes 2-30 days under the TG-bPASS system, will now take less than five minutes. Even complex approvals for multi-storied buildings can be completed in under two minutes. Sridhar Babu emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that 60% of the State’s population resides in urban areas, making urban development a priority for the government.
Calling it a groundbreaking step in governance, the Minister said Telangana is leading the way by offering the fastest drawing scrutiny system in India. “This new system will transform approvals, cutting wait times from weeks to minutes and setting a new standard for efficiency,” he remarked.
BuildNow features a unified, single-window interface, eliminating the need for citizens to visit multiple departments or use various online portals. The Minister also shared that the app incorporates 3D visualisation technology, allowing users to preview their building designs even before construction begins. This feature provides an immersive experience for citizens.
The app’s AI capabilities ensure users receive clear and accurate guidance on building regulations. Sridhar Babu explained that the current TG-bPASS system requires users to switch between different platforms for tasks like submitting applications, tracking status, and paying fees. BuildNow consolidates all these functions into one portal, streamlining the entire process.
Under the existing system, building plans are reviewed in static formats, which can lead to errors and misinterpretation. Additionally, citizens currently lack tools to visualise their projects or verify builders’ approved plans. BuildNow addresses these issues by integrating Augmented Reality (AR), which provides interactive and detailed previews of construction projects. The app also uses blockchain technology to ensure secure and transparent tracking of applications, the Minister added.
This innovative app is expected to bring a significant transformation to the building approval process in Telangana, making it faster, easier, and more citizen-friendly.
