CHENNAI: Developers are seeking clarification from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) regarding the eligibility of projects partially within 500 meters of a metro corridor for concessional Premium Floor Space Index (FSI) charges under the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) policy. They argue that the current ambiguity is causing delays in project approvals.
Credai Chennai has formally requested CMDA for clarity. “If any part of the project site is within the 500-meter boundary, it should qualify for the concession. There’s no necessity for the entire site to be included,” stated S Sridharan, a member of Credai National’s executive committee.
According to a government order from August 2022, projects situated within 500 meters of existing, under-construction, and proposed metro rail corridors are entitled to pay Premium FSI charges at half the standard rate. This policy was designed to promote increased density along mass transit corridors and enhance public transport usage.
However, for many large-scale projects, only portions of the site may lie within the 500-meter zone. “Authorities only extend the concession to that specific portion. In some cases, if a project’s road access is beyond the 500-meter mark, the entire benefit is denied,” remarked one developer.
Credai has noted that these varying interpretations have resulted in numerous queries, drawing out approval processes and creating uncertainty for residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects along metro corridors.
“We have appealed to the CMDA for clarification. Additionally, we have urged that the concession not be revoked merely because the site’s road access exceeds the 500-meter radius,” added the developer.
The association is also asking that this clarification be applicable to pending, future, and revised planning applications that haven’t yet received final orders. Credai believes a consistent interpretation of the TOD regulations will expedite project approvals and facilitate the policy’s objective of fostering development along metro corridors.
