Varying floor space index a possibility following World Bank study on area-specific construction limits

The future of Mumbai’s skyline may resemble that of Manhattan’s today. In a decision that could have far-reaching implications for the city, the state government is taking a relook at the present restrictions on the vertical limit for buildings in Mumbai.

The Mumbai Transformation Support Unit (MTSU), state government advisory body, has undertaken a World Bank-funded study that would ultimately lead to a Floor Space Index (FSI) mapping for the city.

Explaining the concept, MTSU project director UPS Madan said, “Unlike Mumbai, most developed cities of the world do not have the concept of uniform FSI. An exercise in FSI mapping would be a more rational approach wherein different areas will be granted varying FSI. It would depend on factors such as whether the area is residential or commercial, its proximity to business districts, public transport corridors or green areas.”

The report, which is being prepared by a team of planners and economists led by World Bank appointed urban planner Alain Bertaud, will be ready in another couple of months. According to Madan, the World Bank team will submit the basic formula for area specific FSI and mapping while local planners with knowledge of the situation on field will carry out the detailing.

The Floor Space Index (FSI) — the permissible built up area on a plot — is 1.33 for most of Mumbai. Over and above this, constructions in suburbs can load transfer of development rights and can consume a maximum FSI of 2. The concept of additional FSI in Mumbai at present is scheme-specific rather than area-specific. For instance, projects under the Slum Rehabilitation scheme, Urban Renewal scheme, the proposed cluster redevelopment scheme, townships, MHADA colonies and redevelopment of old buildings under Development Control Regulation 33/7 enjoy higher FSI than other areas.

... contd.