Developmental Control rules put spanner in Chaityabhoomi revamp

The state government’s decision to modernise Chaityabhoomi, Dr Ambedkar memorial, by giving maximum FSI, 10, to National Textile Corporation (NTC) for construction of a five star hotel at Prabhadevi has been dealt a big blow.

According to sources, under the Developmental Control (DC) rules 1967, As per DC rule 1967, the developers are not allowed to use more than FSI of 2 on any industrial plot in coastal regulation zone (CRZ). “Mill land is considered as an industrial plot, where the developer or owner is not allowed more than 2 FSI. As per 1979 amendment in DC rule, NTC will able to build a small hotel, but not a five-star hotel such as Taj or Trident, which needs the maximum FSI of 10. Both Taj and Trident were constructed on commercial plots. So development was allowed there,” said sources.

Out of the 12 acres, NTC offered a 4-acre plot to state government for revamping the Chaityabhoomi. In quid pro quo, government allowing NTC to avail maximum FSI, on its remaining India United Mill plot. Presently, FSI of 1.33 is available in south Mumbai and FSI of 1 in the suburbs.

“DCR 1967 will be big blow to the Congress-NCP led state government which was trying to woo Dalit voters ahead of various municipal corporation elections by revamping the Chaityabhoomi. Republic Party of India leader Ramdas Athawale changed his allegiance from Congress-NCP alliance to the saffron brigade, and the Dalit vote bank may move with him. This can hamper the Congress-NCP prospect in upcoming polls. So, to consolidate the Dalit vote bank, government had decided to modernise the Chaityabhoomi. After this FSI blow, they have to rework on their strategy to retain the vote bank,” said political observer.

NTC officials said that the five star hotel proposal was at a nascent state. “Until, we get satisfactory answer from the government, we will not hand over any piece of land at any cost. Land is very important in Mumbai. It will take some time to finalise the deal and subsequently, sign the agreement,” an official added, requested anonymity.