Mumbai civic body’s order on construction along Metro-3 stumps residents and builders

The BMC has directed builders to seek MMRC’s approval for redevelopement and construction within 50 metres of the Metro line

The recent decision by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to regulate the construction of buildings along the Metro-3 (Colaba–Bandra-SEEPZ) route has stumped residents and builders.

Residents fear that the order will delay construction

It has directed builders to seek Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation’s (MMRC) approval for redevelopement and construction within 50 metres of the Metro line.

Residents fear that the order will delay construction. There are thousands of dilapidated buildings between Kalbadevi and Andheri.

Rajesh Vardhan, managing director, Vardhman Builders, said, “There are skyscrapers across the world near Metro lines with no restrictions. These Metros are for the residents of these buildings,” said Vardhan. “Such flip-flops will only make revamp difficult and the ultimate losers would be tenants living in old structures,” he added.

In its letter to the BMC, the MMRC said, “The objective is to regulate, control the development of land or building along the Metro alignment for timely construction of the corridor and also for the safety of building and the Metro line.’

Residents of these buildings have expressed anger over the move. “We are in the last stage of the redevelopment agreement. The BMC should realise that we are living in a constant fear as we are using scaffolding to support our building,” said Nitesh More who lives in a 66-year-old structure at Girguam.

Rahul Shah, who lives in a chawl at Dadar, seconded More’s sentiment. “First because of the Development Plan-2034, we have faced constant delays. Now, the BMC’s order will worsen the situation.”