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The proposed 15-storey building at Baroda House faces roadblocks

While the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) gave the go-ahead for the redevelopment plan, it was awaiting confirmation from the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC).

The proposed 15-storey building at Baroda House faces roadblocks
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The two-storeyed structure at Baroda House in Fort, Mumbai, was demolished in 2015. Owners of the land, M Pallonji and Pvt Ltd, proposed the redevelopment of the area into a 15-storey building with a height of 54 meters. While the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) gave the go-ahead for the redevelopment plan, it was awaiting confirmation from the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC).

Well, the MHCC has now struck down the owners’ proposal and asked then to submit a new one. The original proposal included a parking space of up to seven storeys and service areas until the 15th floor. However, the MHCC recommends a 34-meter building with a total of nine storeys. The MHCC believes this will set a precedent for other projects that are being undertaken in the Fort area. Further, the committee added that the proposed redevelopment project would impact the precinct character of the area. 

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A representative for M Pallonji and Pvt Ltd said - “It is imperative that parking is incorporated in the plan as being in a commercial area, this location is extremely congested. If the height of the building is restricted to 32m, no parking spaces can be provided and condonation of parking will add to the financial burden. It is also causing financial loss on account of temporary alternate office premises, premiums for condonation of various deficiencies, interest on premium already paid to BMC.”Situated in South Mumbai, Fort is a place with a lot of historical significance.

It is situated near the Horniman Circle Gardens, Flora Fountain, as well as the Asiatic Society Library. While the MHCC may be right in its assessment of the proposed redevelopment plan, some fear that this would come in the way of actual redevelopment adding that the history and heritage of the area can be maintained with taller buildings. The authorities will have to find a middle-ground so as to not come in the way of actual development.

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