Chandigarh: With the Chandigarh administration all set to increase the floor area ratio (FAR) for industrial plots in the Industrial Area Phase 1 and 2, the Chandigarh Industrial Converted Plot Owners Association has sought enhancement of FAR, revision of height norms and policy framework for converted commercial plots.In 2005, under the Conversion Policy, around 125 industrial plot owners opted for conversion from industrial to commercial activities on payment of substantial conversion charges ranging between Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 per square yard, contributing approximately Rs 1,200 crore to the govt exchequer.Chander Verma, president, Chandigarh Industrial Converted Plot Owners Association, said, “Despite such significant financial contribution and heavy investments in construction, converted plot owners are presently operating under restricted FAR of 2.0 along with a maximum permissible height of 30 metres. A substantial portion of the permissible built-up area is consumed by mandatory services, utilities, staircases, lifts, parking norms and common areas, thereby limiting effective commercial utilisation and reducing economic viability.“The association has already submitted multiple representations requesting enhancement of FAR from 2.0 to minimum 2.5. However, the matter has not yet been decided.As per recent reports, enhancement of FAR in industrial areas has been proposed by the competent panel and is under consideration.In view of this proposed policy decision, principles of parity, equity and fair planning warrant proportionate enhancement for converted plots, which have already paid substantial conversion charges and are operating strictly under commercial parameters, the association has demanded.Verma said, “FAR for converted plots be enhanced to minimum 2.5 or appropriately higher in line with present planning standards and regional competitiveness. The present height restriction of 30 metres be suitably revised to enable practical utilisation of the enhanced FAR. In case FAR in industrial plots is enhanced, there should be no permission for commercial activities in such industrial properties that may adversely affect or disturb the functioning and viability of duly converted commercial plots.“The association has said a clear and unambiguous policy be issued differentiating land use and permissible activities between industrial and converted commercial properties, so that the substantial monies paid towards commercial conversion are protected and do not become economically redundant.A new and comprehensive Building Plans Policy specifically for converted commercial properties be drafted, the association has demanded.In commercial buildings, occupiers and business formats change frequently, requiring need-based internal modifications and structural adjustments, the association has contended.The present policy framework lacks clarity in this regard, and such buildings are often treated at par with industrial plots or small SCOs in sector markets, which is not appropriate considering their distinct commercial nature and scale.Verma said, “Such rational enhancement of FAR, revision of height norms and issuance of a differentiated policy framework will improve project viability, strengthen investor confidence, ensure orderly development, protect legitimate commercial investments and enhance long-term revenue generation for the administration.”
