Failing to meet code of conduct deadline, state seeks EC nod to hike FSI

The decision taken was to hike the FSI from 1.5 to 2.5, which would allow construction up to 2.5 times the plot size for redevelopment of such properties. Expected to boost the real estate sector in Navi Mumbai, the much-delayed government decision is being pushed by the Congress-NCP alliance in the state as an important ‘poll-plank’ ahead of the Assembly polls.

The NCP-controlled City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO), which is the town planning agency in Navi Mumbai, had earlier sought an FSI of 3 for redevelopment of such buildings.

But, following opposition from certain section of citizens, the CM had finally decided to allow 2.5 FSI.

But sources said that the Chief Minister’s office only cleared the file in this regard on September 12- the day when the code-of-conduct- kicked in, leaving almost no time for the Urban Development (UD) department to issue a notification in this regard. Following the EC’s announcement of date for state polls, the code-of-conduct came into force in the state around 5 pm that day.

A source said that the CMO’s approval to the file was delayed on account of certain queries regarding the move’s impact.

The government is now hoping that the EC allows it to issue the notification before elections to get maximum political mileage out of it. A senior government official also informed that notification on another decision concerning the list of heritage structures in Mumbai had similarly been referred for the EC’s permission. The CM had earlier decided to withdraw most structures recommended for inclusion as part of a heritage precinct in Chembur.

A Congress legislator, Chandrakant Handore, represents the Chembur Assembly segment.
sandeep.ashar@expressindia.com