Goa Industrial Development Corporation (Goa-IDC) organised a workshop on the Online Building Plan Approval System (OBPAS) to provide hands-on training for architects on the seamless submission and approval of building plans through the Goa-IDC’s OPEN portal. The session aimed to streamline the building plan approval process, enhance compliance, and ensure efficient implementation of the system. The workshop which was attended by over 50 Architects featured a detailed demonstration of the OBPAS module, highlighting its functionalities and benefits.
The interactive session allowed architects to gain practical insights into the submission and approval workflow, addressing any queries related to the system’s application and compliance requirements.
Pravimal Abhishek, Managing Director of Goa-IDC, emphasised the corporation’s commitment to digital transformation and efficiency in industrial infrastructure development. He highlighted how the new Online Building Plan Approval System (OBPAS) will streamline and accelerate construction approvals for industries while enhancing transparency.
“When I joined two years ago, I observed a lack of clarity in the approval process. Meetings were held behind closed doors, there was no structured agenda for discussing files, and applicants were often left in the dark about why their plans were not approved,” he said.
To address these challenges, Goa-IDC initially implemented basic reforms—keeping agendas open until all files were cleared and inviting architects, engineers, and industry representatives to participate in meetings. These measures significantly expedited approvals. Now, with OBPAS, the entire process has transitioned online.
Abhishek explained that industries can now apply for both technical clearance and construction licenses through a single application. “The system also includes a built-in tool for architects to verify compliance with regulations before submission, reducing errors and saving time,” he added.
The digital platform is powered by a trusted system developed by the eGov Foundation in Bengaluru, which is already operational in over 2,500 towns and cities across India and more than 15 countries worldwide.
“We didn’t reinvent the wheel. Instead, we leveraged an established, reliable system and customised it to suit our requirements,” he noted. The workshop also featured a live demonstration of the portal with participants encouraged to provide feedback.
As part of the workshop, the Architect Manual prepared by Goa-IDC was also reviewed, providing architects with an in-depth understanding of the guidelines and requirements for building plan submissions. Participants shared their feedback on the manual, offering valuable suggestions for improving clarity and usability.
This interactive discussion helped align Goa-IDC’s regulatory framework with the practical needs of architects, fostering a more efficient and architect-friendly approval process.
The workshop witnessed an active participation from architects and industry professionals, who appreciated the initiative’s efforts to facilitate smoother approval mechanisms and compliance adherence. With Goa-IDC’s continued focus on digital advancements, the OBPAS is expected to significantly improve the approval system and contribute to the state’s industrial growth, states a press release.
