Ambani helipads get BMC nod

Mukesh Ambani can have three helipads at his 27-storey house, Antilia, at Altamount Road.

The state urban development department on Tuesday okayed the setting up of private and commercial helipads on the rooftop, on the side and on the marginal open space of a building. Ambani wanted to have three helipads for the landmark building solely owned and occupied by his family and staff.

The regulations, which are expected to be discussed at the civic improvements committee meeting on July 24, permit the construction of cantilever structures for helipads on the marginal open space of a building. The free tip of a cantilever should be at least 15 feet from the building.

Ambani has the civic permission to build another helipad atop his present residence at Seawind in Cuffe Parade. The proposal is expected to get the committee’s nod.
Town planners, however, expressed their reservations. “While helipads on the sides may be feasible for buildings with a single owner, it would be difficult for other buildings,” architect Chetan Raikar said.

Architect Ratan Bhalwankar, who is an office bearer of the Practicing Engineers, Town Planners and Architects Association (PEATA), said, “Permitting helipads on marginal open spaces could affect the light and ventilation of those staying on the lower floors. It could also lead to noise pollution.”

Raikar said the cantilevers should be set up carefully as these could affect the building’s structural stability. A civic official said it would be necessary to obtain a building stability certificate before going for the construction. Gautam Singhania, Anil Ambani, Mayur Shah, Vikas Oberoi are among the others who want exclusive helipads.