Not Much Clarity on Rules Governing TDR Bangalore
The fund-hit BBMP has been over-generous in granting TDR certificates for portions of land it takes from residents for public projects, mainly road-widening. But there isn’t much clarity on the rules governing them. As on May 30, 2011, Bangalore property ownersh as surrendered 38.24 lakh sq feet area land to BBMP Bangalore and the corporation has issued TDRs to an extent of 57.37 lakh sq feet of FARs (floor area ratio). The only restriction is that TDRs must be renewed after every five years and compulsorily used within 10 years of purchase.
For, BBMP’s TDR instrument is turning out to be another loophole that allows building violations across the city. In many cases, BBMP officials themselves are rather ignorant about rules governing them. There are many instances that suggest that unregulated use of TDRs could lead to rampant violations, particularly with its relaxation for setback.
For instance, a mall in the core city area built an additional floor using TDRs. It then managed to get the half setback concession extended to the entire three-floor building when as per rules, they were entailed to use the concessional setback only for one floor.
If the TDR allows you to leave a setback of 2 mts instead of the normal 4 mts, the concession is applicable only to the additional floor. But this is loophole builders can exploit as following this rule means the additional floor will jut out over the sanctioned floors which might lead to technical issues in construction.
When asked about the officials’ lack of knowledge of rules and their alleged complicity in granting TDRs, BBMP commissioner Siddaiah, a strong advocate of TDRs for development, admits that this could lead to problems.
“We have already made some mistakes in the past. Majority of them relate to huge commercial buildings and apartment complexes. Officials must be careful while granting sanctions. Colluding officials will be taken to task,’’ he said.
“We cannot afford to have any more violations. It’s true we have been generous with TDRs so far. But it might also lead to huge violations if not monitored properly. We will do so.”
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