In a move aimed at alleviating the challenges posed by stringent construction regulations, Hemant Rasane, former chairman of the standing committee of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), has made an appeal to Commissioner Vikram Kumar. The crux of the request is to reconsider and possibly revoke a circular that mandates an 18-meter side margin for construction in densely populated and rural areas of the PMC, particularly affecting the redevelopment of historical palaces.
The redevelopment landscape in the Gavthan area has encountered significant obstacles due to these regulations. In the past, construction permits were granted without the need for a side margin, which has since been altered. Amendments to the UDCPR (Urban Development and Control Promotion Regulations) rules now impose a mandatory one-meter side margin even for buildings exceeding 15 meters in height.
The situation escalated in May 2023 when the government granted Commissioner Kumar the authority to offer relaxations in construction requirements when faced with challenges. However, it appears that the concessions provided thus far are insufficient to address the unique needs of certain historical structures, especially old palaces, which are affected by the 18-meter depth condition.
Rasane’s appeal to Commissioner Kumar reflects a broader goal – finding a balance between urban development regulations and the preservation of the historical and cultural significance of Pune’s architectural heritage. While modernization is important for any city’s growth, it should not come at the expense of erasing its historical footprint.
The challenges faced by construction projects in the Gavthan area highlight the necessity for a more nuanced approach to urban planning. This approach should consider the diverse needs of both contemporary development and the preservation of the city’s rich historical heritage.
The plea for revisiting the 18-meter side margin rule is not just about simplifying construction regulations; it’s about fostering a sustainable coexistence of the old and the new in Pune’s ever-evolving urban landscape.
