Pune: In a major boost to the tourism and hospitality sector, the Maharashtra Government has announced a new regulation that will pave the way for the construction of luxurious hotels, resorts, and amusement parks in Pune and other cities across the state.

The government has decided to allow developers to use up to five times the permissible FSI (Floor Space Index) based on the width of the roads, a decision expected to significantly ease development projects.

This decision comes as part of the newly announced State Tourism Policy, which has been incorporated into the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR). The policy aims to encourage tourism, promote infrastructure development, and create new job opportunities. Under the new guidelines, developers will be allowed to use up to 3 FSI on 12-meter-wide roads, 3.5 FSI on 18-meter-wide roads, and 4 FSI on 27-meter-wide roads.

Additionally, the policy allows the use of up to 60% of FSI from Ready Reckoner rates as ancillary FSI, enabling more construction flexibility. A significant change is the provision that developers can now pay construction development fees in installments, making it easier for projects to proceed.

Policy Scope and Applicability:

The new regulations apply to the entire state, except for Mumbai and Greater Mumbai. However, there are special provisions for free premium FSI in certain cities like Vidarbha, Marathwada, Dhule, Nagpur, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. Importantly, these FSI allowances are available only for residential properties.

Previously, builders wishing to use additional FSI for constructing hotels, resorts, or amusement parks were required to seek permission from the state government. With the new policy integrated into the UDCPR, approvals will now be granted at the local self-governance level, making the process more streamlined.

Impact on Pune and Other Cities:

This change will significantly impact the construction of luxurious hotels, restaurants, and resorts, particularly in Pune, which is a major hub for tourism and business. Developers can now proceed with larger-scale projects without the lengthy approval process previously required for additional FSI usage.

Key Benefits and Highlights of the Policy:

• FSI can now be used up to 3 to 4 times beyond the normal limits based on road width.

• Premium FSI will be available in specific regions, especially in Vidarbha, Marathwada, and other cities.

• Developers can now pay construction fees in installments, reducing financial pressure.

• Approval process is simplified as local authorities will grant approvals.

• Free premium FSI in select areas will help in reducing development costs.