The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has paved the way for the expedited redevelopment of historic Wadas in the old city by issuing a notification on Thursday. The new notification eliminates the earlier requirement of leaving a one-metre side-margin for the redevelopment of old structures located on narrow roads that are only six metres wide. This change is applicable to Wadas under 1,000 square metres in area, aiming to streamline and accelerate the redevelopment process for the numerous old Wadas in the central parts of the city. The move comes in response to the challenges faced by many Wadas in the heart of the city due to the previous side-margin requirement. With this revision, developers can now proceed with Wada redevelopment by paying premium charges to the PMC at the ready reckoner rate, calculated by adding the total area of the side-margin. The charges will be 10% for residential properties and 15% for commercial properties, fostering redevelopment in the Peth areas and addressing long-pending Wada redevelopment issues.
Earlier, the side-margin rule in the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR) for Maharashtra posed obstacles for Wada redevelopment, prompting local representatives to advocate for its relaxation. In response to their demand, the PMC commissioner made the decision, facilitated by charging a hardship premium, ultimately resolving the longstanding issue of redeveloping historic Wadas. The move has been welcomed by property owners, developers, and tenants as a significant decision capable of positively impacting their lives.