CURE Bill proposes deemed building approvals, higher property tax and expanded civic services
HYDERABAD: The Core Urban Region (Integrated Governance) Bill, 2026 (CURE Bill) aims to make urban governance more citizen-friendly. It proposes faster building approvals, better municipal services and improved living standards, especially for the urban poor. However, the reforms also include higher property tax assessments.
The Bill sets a fixed timeline for processing building permit applications. If an officer does not make a decision within the deadline, the application will automatically move to the next higher authority. If that officer also fails to act, the applicant will receive deemed approval. The applicant can then send a notice to the Commissioner and claim the approval.
The proposal addresses delays under the existing BuildNow Building and Layout Approval System. Although the system offers fast online scrutiny, some applications remain pending because officials do not process them on time. Under the new law, such applications will automatically move to senior officials instead of remaining stuck.
Gender Inclusion Cell to improve urban safety
The Bill proposes a Gender Inclusion Cell to support inclusive urban governance. The cell will collect data, conduct research and suggest practical steps to make cities safer for women and transgender persons.
Night economy and digital governance
The Bill introduces night economy zones to encourage business, create jobs, boost tourism and keep cities active during extended hours.
It also keeps important features of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Act, 1995. These include the Standing Committee, ward committees and the existing structure of urban local bodies. At the same time, it introduces several new reforms.
The Bill proposes a revised property tax system and a Unique Property Identification Number (UPIN) for every property. It also introduces a single trade licence to make business approvals easier.
In addition, the Bill provides a unified digital portal for municipal services. It supports real-time coordination among different government agencies and improves emergency response. It also bans manual scavenging.
The proposed law creates dedicated cells for traffic management, environmental protection, food safety and disaster response. These measures aim to deliver better and more coordinated urban governance.
