Maharashtra Govt's Funnel Policy: Boosting Redevelopment of Old Buildings Near Mumbai Airport

The government of Maharashtra has taken a vital step towards urban renewal by announcing a fountain policy for old buildings in and around Mumbai Airport. This policy is part of the Maharashtra redevelopment policy and proposes to ease norms for redevelopment within the funnel zone of the airport. Here is a closer look at the four key aspects of the policy.

1. Reduced Premiums for Redevelopment

One of the key highlights of the Maharashtra redevelopment policy is the reduction in premium charges for old buildings situated in the funnel zone of Mumbai Airport.

• Eligibility: Buildings older than 30 years and under 18 meters in height (approximately five storeys) qualify for this benefit.
• Objective: This measure is designed to lower redevelopment costs, making the process more feasible for developers and society residents.
• Implementation: The revised rules have been incorporated into the Development Control and Promotional Rules 2034, with a dedicated chapter for properties in the funnel zone.

The move directly benefits areas like Santacruz, Vile Parle, Kurla, and Andheri, which fall under the funnel zone of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

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2. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Benefits

The Maharashtra government has also provided clarity on the utilization of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) in the funnel zone.

• FSI Adjustments: The basic Floor Space Index (FSI) for these buildings is set at 1. If height restrictions prevent the full utilization of FSI, developers can generate TDR and sell it to other builders.
• Cost Reduction: For additional FSI, a premium of 60% of the standard cost is levied, further reducing construction expenses.
• Impact: This provision offers flexibility to residents and developers, allowing them to optimize their redevelopment projects despite regulatory limitations.

FSI, a crucial factor in urban planning, determines the permissible height and construction area for redevelopment projects, and these relaxations simplify the process for funnel zone residents.

3. Eligibility for the Relaxation

The Maharashtra redevelopment policy specifically targets existing societies in the funnel zone.

• Who Can Apply: Owners or tenants residing in old societies within this zone can avail of the relaxations.
• Focus: The policy is tailored to assist residential societies, ensuring they can overcome hurdles like high redevelopment costs and stringent aviation regulations.

This step aligns with the government’s goal of improving the living conditions of residents while maintaining aviation safety standards.

4. Case-by-Case Approval Process

While the policy has recognized the relaxations referenced above, it conveys a more tailored approach to the approvals of redevelopment.

• Proposal Submission: As part of the application process, residents or developers must submit a proposal explaining the reasons for the relaxation request and documenting their planning constraints or hardship. 
• Evaluation: Each request for relaxation will be assessed on its own merits to ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations and urban planning requirements. 
• Document Requirements: The proposals will require documents to support requests and put forward technical justification for maximising the allowable FSI.

This thorough process will contribute to ensuring that any redevelopment approved is consistent with the intentions of the policy while maintaining safety and functionality in the funnel zone.

Significance of the Funnel Policy

The Maharashtra redevelopment policy is a proactive effort to deal with some of the issues facing the inhabitants of old buildings close to Mumbai Airport. Reducing premiums, providing TDR benefits, and offering case-specific relaxations create a balanced approach to facilitating urban renewal/redevelopment. 

Furthermore, the government’s emphasis on transparent and fair redevelopment processes demonstrates its concern for residents and urban development.

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Conclusion

The funnel policy from Maharashtra government is a key component of its overall redevelopment plan. Given the low acuity in costs, flexible FSIs and dedicated eligibility requirements, the Maharashtra redevelopment policy is able to consume the old infrastructure and replace it with healthier and safer alternatives using a public health paradigm. 

For residents in locations like Santacruz, Vile Parle, Kurla and Andheri this is an opportunity to rejuvenate their neighborhoods, and embrace the changing condition of modern urban life. As the funnel policy and its incentives take shape, there will be a transformative impact on the skylines of Mumbai's funnel zone, and ultimately far more livable and just urban environments.

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