Many projects have been in the news for their proximity to defence establishments or forest areas
Defence, Forest and other departments that seek a buffer zone between construction activities might soon have to buy the land they want as the buffer, said Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta, while addressing the builder community earlier this week.
Mehta was responding to a question raised by Mukesh Patel, Joint Treasurer of CREDAI-MCHI. "When the BMC comes up with a development plan, a developer keeps in mind all the rules laid down. However, there have been instances when Defence and others have asked for construction to be stopped because of the proximity to their establishments. This hampers growth," said Patel. To this, Mehta replied, "If Forest and Defence need a buffer, then pay for it."
Later, Mehta said, "We respect the law and understand the importance of Defence and Environment, but one cannot take someone's land."
Normally, a buffer zone means no construction is allowed up to 500 meters of the establishment or forest. According to Patel, in areas like Malad and Kandivali, the situation came up around 2011, when the Defence raised an objection. Thus affecting many redevelopment projects. "They protect all the 50,000 buildings in the city, but then why should only 500 buildings suffer. This move will help residents, tenants, developers and other citizens. Organisations asking for a buffer zone can buy the land at market value and compensate the affected party," said Patel.
Some builders are of the opinion that instead of asking for a buffer zone outside their boundary, the organisations should have a buffer zone inside their boundary thus not impacting the existing buildings in the city.
...& ANALYSIS
- Many projects have been in the news for their proximity to defence establishments or forest areas.
- This move means that residents will get compensation, however BMC will have to knock on various doors to make this ambitious suggestion a reality.
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