Urban News

The Deccan Chronicle  23.11.2010

Nov. 22: Members of the organization ‘Abide’ have sent a proposal to Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) to reconsider zoning regulations and Floor Area Ratio (FAR). They suggest that higher FAR be given only to bigger plots and wider roads.

The members have observed that increased FAR has been causing haphazard growth and inconvenience to the public as well as the administration. Ashwin Mahesh, a member of ‘Abide,’ said that all over the world higher FAR is granted only for bigger plots located on wider roads. Zoning regulations are also meant to be taken seriously. Violation of zoning regulations and increased FAR on smaller plots have created havoc in the city and snatched away the peace and serenity in residential areas, he said.

Higher FAR can lead to parking problems and traffic congestion. Allowing commercial activities in residential areas has created havoc, he added.

BDA had earlier granted permission for up to 4 FAR for about 250 meters along the Metro Rail track to increase the density of population and number of passengers. However, ‘Abide’ seems to have taken a critical view of the increased FAR along the metro rail alignment. ‘Abide’ members have urged BDA to reconsider their decision and allow increased FAR only at certain areas which call for it. This move would help the state government combat traffic-related woes, he said.

The proposals have been placed before the board for consideration and they will be sent to the urban development department before implementation. It may be recalled that Koramangala had become chaotic when commercial activities were allowed at residential areas. A few residents including Dr Devi Shetty of Narayana Hrudayalaya had lodged a public interest litigation in the High Court, said sources.

In another case, the BBMP had carried out a lockout drive at Sadashivanagar on those commercial structures which were constructed without proper approval. Following widespread opposition from the public both at Koramangala and Sadashivanagar, the BBMP had to drop the drive.

To avoid such chaotic situation in the city, the FAR and zoning regulations should be followed strictly.