Owners will be happy

MUMBAI: The decision to increase FSI to 4 for mill workers’ housing may be the first step to liberalise the city’s land-use regime. Experts contend that the move clears the way to raise FSI for commercial exploitation of one-third of vacant mill lands. In addition to benefiting from the increased FSI, mill owners can secure transfer of development rights for use in the suburbs.

Observers say the civic elections must have been a factor in the decision. The commercial development of Girangaon often evokes an emotive debate about the displacement of the original residents.

The government’s decision will mollify many because it facilitates the creation of 35,000 low-cost housing units. And with MHADA planning to build an equal number of houses for middle-class families, there may be some relief for those who have endured cramped quarters for long.