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Future's bleak for collapsed Kalbadevi building occupants

Though there are a few developers who have shown preliminary inclination for redeveloping the building, financially the project does not seem viable for them. Most occupants own commercial space there, with only two residential units in the building. Developers do not get extra benefit in developing a commercial building.

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The civic body's stringent Development Control Regulations (DCR) haven't left much hope of redevelopment for the occupants of Kalbadevi's Gokul Niwas, which collapsed after a massive fire damaged the structure within six hours last Saturday.

Though there are a few developers who have shown preliminary inclination for redeveloping the building, financially the project does not seem viable for them. Most occupants own commercial space there, with only two residential units in the building. Developers do not get extra benefit in developing a commercial building.

"In cases of rundown, dilapidated buildings, burnt in fire or collapsed, 33 (6) of DCR, 1991, is usually applied. However, in Gokul Niwas's case, the only hurdle will be open space. The building is very small. If, as per the DCR, minimum open space will have to be left around the redeveloped building, it will not be viable for the developer," said an expert.

"If authorities decide to redevelop the building under 33(9), ie cluster development, then the residents will have to wait until all the neighbouring buildings give their consent, and that too provided they get a good deal. It will definitely take a long time. On the other hand, 33(7) of the DCR can't be applied in this case, given the small size of the plot, as it requires several other things — parking space, open space and other mandatory provisions — under redevelopment."

However, he added, if the municipal commissioner wishes to help the residents, he can exercise his discretionary powers to give them relief.

Minister for housing Prakash Mehta, who visited the spot after the tragedy, had promised to do everything possible for the occupants so that their commercial space is given back to them at the earliest. "He has also promised that Gokul Niwas will be treated as special case," said an occupant.

Meanwhile, the corporation, Mhada and Mumbai fire brigade have vacated Narayan Niwas, the building next to Gokul Niwas. "The building is sealed and the three families staying there have been sent to a transit camp in Prabhadevi. Commercial occupants will have to make their own arrangements. However, considering the sky-high rent in the area, they have nowhere to go at present," said Janak Sanghvi, a former corporator of the area.

He added that all belongings of the residents and occupants of Narayan Niwas are still in the building. They will be allowed to go back only after the building is given the necessary support using props. But the occupants will only be allowed to use the premises once the repair work is done satisfactorily.

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