The proposal has been sent to the state government as part of suggested amendments to the Development Control Regulations (DCR) 2034. If approved, it could clear the way for long-pending Mumbai redevelopment projects that have remained stuck for years.
At present, many buildings located on plots connected to roads narrower than 9 metres face restrictions in using additional Floor Space Index (FSI) and Transferable Development Rights (TDR). Because of this rule, redevelopment of thousands of aging and unsafe buildings has remained stalled.
In 2019, the state government had decided to increase the free FSI benefit for such buildings. However, since that provision was not included in the Development Plan 2034, the decision could not be implemented on the ground.
A study group led by Legislative Council member Pravin Darekar reviewed the issue and recommended that buildings on roads narrower than 9 metres should be allowed the same redevelopment benefits given to buildings on wider roads, with building height capped at 32 metres.
This would allow such housing societies to use additional FSI and TDR, making redevelopment financially possible and helping residents move out of old and risky structures.
The study group also pointed out that widening roads is the responsibility of the civic body, and residents of decades-old buildings should not lose redevelopment opportunities because of infrastructure limitations beyond their control.
The state government has already accepted the study group’s report, and BMC has now formally submitted a proposal for regulatory changes.
If the Urban Development Department clears the amendment, thousands of stalled redevelopment projects across Mumbai could finally begin moving forward, bringing major relief to residents living in old buildings.
read more at mumbaipune.co.in
