Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde hints at potential TDR shift to revive redevelopment

Aircraft seen taking off near redevelopment-stalled areas in the airport funnel zone. Pic/Satej Shinde

A shift from basic Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) to potential TDR may be the key to unlocking stalled redevelopment projects in Mumbai's airport funnel zone, which includes areas like Vile Parle, Santacruz, and Kurla.

On Tuesday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also holds the Urban Development and Housing portfolios, informed the State Legislative Assembly that the government had initiated a public consultation process to address redevelopment hurdles in these areas.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde

"In this consultation, we've received suggestions to permit potential TDR instead of basic TDR to make such redevelopment projects viable and feasible," Shinde said, replying to a calling attention notice raised by BJP MLA Ameet Satam, followed by queries from Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Varun Sardesai.

Due to aviation height restrictions, the redevelopment of many old and dilapidated buildings near the airport has been stuck, forcing residents to live in unsafe, uninhabitable conditions.

Acknowledging the urgency, Shinde said, "We will soon call a meeting of all MLAs concerned to finalise the policy - whether to allow basic or potential TDR." He added that both he and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis would pursue the issue with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to secure the necessary approvals and clearances.

Everything you need to know about Transfer of Development Rights

What is TDR?
Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) is compensation granted to landowners or developers in the form of development rights instead of cash. These rights can either be used by the recipient for construction or sold in the open market.

Basic TDR
For every square metre of land surrendered, the same amount of development rights are granted.

Potential TDR
A more flexible version that factors in the true market potential of the land, often allowing for multiple times the base TDR, making redevelopment projects financially viable.