Govt may revise redevelopment eligibility of cessed buildings

The requirement for the cluster redevelopment of dilapidated cessed buildings may soon be reduced to 2,000 square metre from the existing 4,000 square metre, according to sources privy to the draft housing policy. These buildings are mostly located in areas such as Bhendi Bazaar, Colaba, Girgaum, Mazgaon, Byculla, Fort, Chira Bazaar, Kalbadevi, among others.

It was confirmed by Mumbai MLA Ajay Chaudhury, who is part of the committee that was asked for suggestions to fast-track the process. He said, "The draft housing policy does mention reduction in the area requirement for redevelopment of dilapidated buildings. This draft will be put forth for suggestions and objections." He further said, "The plot size of these dilapidated buildings is small. If we have to achieve the target of 4,000 sq m it will slow down the redevelopment process."

Several building collapses have been reported in the city. Architect Arqam Shaikh, of ARC Associate who redevelops cessed buildings, said, "Under cluster redevelopment, there are many benefits for the tenants and developers. Also, amenities can be incorporated as the area and incentive is big."