CMDA recommends changes in parking in non-IT buildings

Chennai

Chennai residents are increasingly facing the problem of parking and even roads are not spared for use as parking slots in many areas. On a representation from the CREDAI to modify development regulations, the CMDA has recommended to the government for allowing car parking in the upper floors on non-IT buildings.

So far, parking in the upper floors above stilt floors was permitted in the case of IT buildings and hence the need to amend the development regulations. At the same time, the authorities prefer to prevent unauthorised conversion of parking space for other purposes either by way of collecting security deposit or any other means.

There are advantages while permitting parking space in the upper floors. The cost of construction may be reduced when compared to the construction of basement floors apart from limitations in digging. In some areas, the water table may be very high that will act as a barrier for construction of basement floors.

The CMDA’s monitoring committee of the regulatory authority while approving the suggestion felt that a charge shall be made by the developer/owner for the undivided share of the land/premises transferred by way of sale deed or lease deed executed.

The covered car parking may be allowed up to ground plus three floors above ground level in cases of residential and commercial developments and the same shall not be included in the computation of FSI and coverage. A parking security deposit at Rs 500 per sqm will be collected and refunded after three years of occupation of the building.

A certification for the designs to withstand the earthquakes, for the upper parking floors from the Class I structural engineer may also be insisted since Chennai happens to be in seismic zone III.

Industry sources say that this will go a long way in easing the vehicle parking congestion in residential complexes as well make way for the vehicular movement on roads in residential localities. The plan will have to be now approved by the government before amendment to DC rules.

V Nagarajan, Property Consultant

Source: http://content.magicbricks.com/cmda-recommends-changes-in-parking-in-non-it-buildings