The Maharashtra government has announced measures to facilitate the redevelopment of ageing and structurally constrained buildings across Mumbai, particularly in areas restricted due to defence installations. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the state legislative assembly that additional incentive Floor Space Index (FSI) would be offered to make such projects viable, addressing long-standing concerns over stalled urban renewal in regions including the Juhu Military Transmission Station and Kandivali-Malad’s Central Ordnance Depot.
High-frequency radar installations at Dahisar and Juhu have historically limited building heights, complicating redevelopment efforts. Under the revised framework, developers undertaking ‘Housing for All’ projects in these zones will be granted free FSI up to 300 sq ft for economically weaker sections and 600 sq ft for low-income groups. “This incentive ensures that rehabilitation components are covered for builders while safeguarding the basic rights of original landowners,” an official said. Unutilised FSI can be converted into Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), providing a funding mechanism for projects. Existing premium benefits and development regulations remain intact. Fadnavis also confirmed that the Dahisar radar would be relocated to Gorai, with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Union Ministry of Civil Aviation approving the move. The state government will bear relocation costs and provide alternative land free of charge, with half of the Dahisar site to be made publicly accessible. “Once the technical evaluation for the Juhu radar is complete, relocation will proceed, unlocking redevelopment potential in these densely populated neighbourhoods,” he added.
Residents of Juhu, represented by the Juhu Wireless-Affected Residents group, have campaigned for decades against height restrictions stemming from a 1976 defence notification that was inconsistently enforced. Redevelopment attempts stalled following a revised notification in 2010 post-Adarsh housing controversy. Currently, around 200 buildings in Juhu await redevelopment clearance, with local stakeholders highlighting the need for sustainable urban renewal. Urban planners note that the revised FSI incentives, coupled with radar relocations, can catalyse redevelopment while maintaining environmental and social equity. “Incorporating sustainable construction and efficient land use is critical in high-density coastal cities,” a senior urban planner said. The policy aligns with Mumbai’s broader goal of promoting inclusive housing without compromising protected zones or ecological sensitivity.
While implementation timelines depend on technical approvals and regulatory processes, the initiative provides a clear pathway for modernising older buildings in strategic areas. By balancing developer incentives, resident rehabilitation, and regulatory safeguards, the policy seeks to create a replicable model for urban renewal in constrained metropolitan landscapes.
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