Mumbai's Municipal Corp bats for FSI hike

Shiv Sena-BJP ruled Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) on Thursday came out with a revised draft development plan which recommends a hike in the floor space index (FSI) from the present 1.33 to 2 and in some cases even up to 5.

MCGM commissioner Ajoy Mehta told reporters the new draft plan proposes to hike FSI up to 2 from the current 1.33 in the island city and one in suburbs. For the construction of five-star hotels and commercial development, it proposes FSI of 5 from the present 3 to 3.5.

FSI of 4 is proposed for the markets and other public amenities. For the buildings developed by the state-run Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), FSI of 4 has been proposed from the present level of 2.5 to 3.

Interestingly, the civic body has refrained from proposing any change in current FSI of 3 for the cessed buildings (old buildings which pay maintenance cess).

However, in a bid to give a push to affordable housing and townships, it has recommended the FSI of 4 for such projects.

"This draft plan has an overall goal of balancing the (needs of) economy with an environment and social equality" as well as providing employment to eight million people, Mehta said.

The draft also includes provisions for multi-purpose housing, vending areas and skill centers for women as well as an old-age home in each ward.