Deccan Chronicle 18.01.2010

State hatches big plot for multi-storey units

Jan. 17: Big is better according to the new master plan for the city, which hopes to rejuvenate degenerating areas like Abids, Koti and Begum Bazaar by encouraging owners of small properties to amalgamate their small plots so that multi-storey buildings can be built on them.

The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has recently notified the core city master plan and has sought objections and suggestions from the public.

“A lot of discussion took place on the need to rejuvenate the old areas. Urban development experts say that if steps are not taken to redevelop such areas, they will soon die. Amalgamation of properties is one step towards redeveloping the old areas,” said the HMDA director (planning), Mr A.V. Bhide.

If land owners opt for this concept, the government will offer concessions in impact fee and other building development charges.

Some urban development experts agree that amalgamation of smaller plots will not only help to redevelop old areas of the city but will also solve the increasing traffic and parking problem as a new high-rise will have planned parking space.

Besides, if the amalgamated land is of 4,000 sq. yd, municipal authorities are willing to give permission for multiple land use of the property which will allow the property to be used for residential and commercial purposes.

“The multiple land use clause will allow small property owners to have their commercial establishments and their residences in the same building. This way, they need not take out their vehicles to go to their shops, but can walk. This will also ease traffic congestion and reduce load on parking space.”

Experts also want the government to offer incentives to builders taking up projects in “dying” areas.