Uniform FSI of 3 for all pre-1970 buildings

Uniform FSI of 3 for all pre-1970 buildingsExpress news service : Mumbai, Sat Jul 27 2013, 01:31 hrs SmallLargePrint

Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan approved Friday a uniform FSI of 3 for all cess buildings that came up before 1970. He was under pressure from members of ruling and Opposition parties.

Earlier, pre-1949 buildings in category 'A' enjoyed an FSI of up to 3 but not those in categories 'B' (pre-1959) and 'C' (pre-1969).

Chavan, responding to a debate on Mumbai in the legislative Assembly, also spelled out measures to curb illegal structures.

All 15-metre and above constructions will have to get structural audit reports from registered engineers and submit designs in advance for sanction. BMC officials will monitor the constructions to ensure there are no violations.

Chavan said the ambitious Real Estate Act, which will bring more accountability and transparency in constructions, was pending with President of India. "I am personally purusing it to get the nod," he said.

On Dharavi development, Chavan said, "Work in sector 5 is expected to complete in December."

Slum-dwellers owning houses of less than 200 square feet will be given 300-square-foot dwellings. Those with less than 300 square feet will get 400 square feet but only after paying construction cost for 100 square feet.

Chavan said: "Sixty-four officials have been shortlisted to monitor encroachments. A police squad will also be in place, for which BMC will have to pay. Three police stations will be set up to monitor illegal activities."